Dist. 103 may take over kids' program

Lincolnshire-Prairie View District 103 has begun to consider whether it will take back its early childhood program from the Special Education District of Lake County starting in 2008.

The district would replicate the program that is currently in place but would instead be responsible for all aspects of the program.

Julie Postma, director of student services, said preschool children with mild to moderate disabilities now attend a special education class offered by SEDOL at Sprague School.

Last spring, the early childhood program threatened to close due to low enrollment, and students would move to Washington School. Potential enrollment did increase to keep the program at Sprague, but staff chose to explore future options.

Postma said through continued talk with SEDOL it appears probable the program may move from Sprague to a more central location in Lake County.

This move will have disadvantages, particularly if students are not only educated out of district but need to be driven further away.

This year, there are eight district students enrolled in the program and three more to be evaluated. Enrollment has ranged from 10 to 14 children in previous years.

Postma said the proposal would continue a successful program at Sprague and offer a continuous program from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade within the district. The district also can control variables including entrance and exit criteria, curriculum and staff hiring.

Postma said projected costs would be about $153,295. Currently, the district pays $12,593.50 per student per year enrolled in the program.

The district's projected expenses do not include anticipated revenue if neighboring districts' special education students enroll and pay tuition. This may contribute up to $12,500 per year.

Postma said parents have expressed concerns in the past about a possible move. Many parents attended the Nov. 12 board meeting to support plans to keep the program in the district.

Larry Rivkin praised the program that his son is enrolled in and said staff make these kids feel a part of Sprague School. He urged the district, while there are financial aspects to review, to also consider the best care for the children who will enter the district schools.

"If you get the best intervention at 3-, 4- or 5-years-old stage, children with special needs who have (services now) reduce the likelihood to request for additional needs," said Rivkin, who lives in Lincolnshire.

Postma has asked the board to take action at its Dec. 10 meeting.