Now Accepting Applications for 2025-2026 PreK Openings
Early Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (eMTSS) is a framework that promotes the use of tiered research-based universal practices and targeted strategies to improve early learning and social emotional well-being for young children, birth through age 8
Referral Information
To make a referral for concerns about a child's development in the areas of communication, social-emotional, motor, adaptive or cognitive development, please:
1) Complete this referral form or contact Kristin Eisensmith
2) Have the child's family complete the online Ages and Stages Questionaire (ASQ-3 and ASQ:SE-2)
Accessible at this Link or by paper copy upon request
3) A district representative will get back to you as soon as possible with next steps.
Our teams of early childhood special educators, speech-language pathologists, occupation and physical therapists are available to help screen your child, ages three to six years when you have concerns about development.
"Early Childhood Special Education Services (ECSES) supports children ages 3 up to 6 years. ECSES is administered through local school districts to ensure access and participation in early childhood programs for each and every child who is determined eligible for services. ECSES enables young children with disabilities to be full participants in everyday routines and activities across a variety of settings (in their homes with their families, in child care, preschool or school programs, and in the community) throughout the early childhood years" (VT Agency of Education).
Helpful resources:
Learn more about your rights , ages 3 to 21 years.
Vermont Agency of Education, Early Childhood Special Education
We believe that early intervention is critical to children's development. Families with children ages birth through their third birthday are eligible to receive services, if children qualify, through Children's Integrated Services. CIS services are family-centered, child-focused, and delivered through a network of providers throughout Vermont. Services could include parenting support, an assessment, referrals or speech, language and vision services.
All children who need early intervention services are eligible regardless of their family's income, in accordance with the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Part C.
More Information is available at:
Early intervention services (IDEA Part C)
Local Children's Integrated Services Coordinator- Chittenden County Families are provided services through Northwest Counseling Services based in St Albans.
To make a referral to Early Intervention for a child under age three, please contact:
The Family Center of Northwestern Counseling & Support Services
Liz Hamel, (802) 393-6634, elizabeth.hamel@ncssinc.org