Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) is a state and federally-mandated program for young children with disabilities, ages 3-5. Children who meet eligibility criteria may receive Early Childhood Special Education services in various settings, such as a pre-kindergarten classroom, in the home, or community settings, such as Head Start and preschool.

Do you suspect a disability?

Any person who has knowledge of a child and suspects a delay in development can make a referral to consider special education and related services. A delay would be suspected if the child is not meeting typical developmental milestones. This determination can be made by referencing age expected behaviors. There are many sources for developmental milestones including:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Milestone Tracker App
• Missouri Early Learning Standards: Birth to Age Five

Evaluation/Eligibility Services

The local ECSE program is responsible for locating, evaluating, and, if the child qualifies, providing special education and related services for children ages 3-5 in the state of Missouri. Services for eligible children are provided through the local school district or area educational cooperative.

• Initial Evaluation Process - Parent Referral Flow Chart
• Initial Evaluation Process - Agency Referral Flow Chart
• Compliance Standards and Indicators

Where are services provided?

• Licensed Child Care Facilities
• Approved Private Agency
• Special Education Placement
• 2022 Head Start & Early Head Start Profile

Contact Information

Compliance
Phone: 573-751-0699
Email: secompliance@dese.mo.gov
Website: https://dese.mo.gov/special-education/compliance

Preschool
Phone: 573-751-6793
Email: preschool@dese.mo.gov