9400 South Sawyer Avenue
Preschool Screenings
TO: Parents of
Preschool Children
FROM: Mary Flanagan
Coordinator of
Student Support Services
Evergreen Park Elementary School District #124
Why screen Preschoolers?
With the increasing recognition of the early years as critical in a
child’s development, schools are evaluating children at younger ages to
determine their strengths and weaknesses in important activities.
What types of programs are available to meet the needs of those children who are found eligible for services?
1. Prekindergarten At Risk Program — this is a non-special education half-day preschool class which addresses the needs of those young children who are identified as being at risk of future academic failure. At risk factors may include preschoolers who speak a language other than English at home, youngsters who may display developmental delays or have family life concerns such as low income, a single parent or a history of health problems.
2. Early Childhood Special Education Program — this half-day preschool program is designed to meet the needs of those children who are identified as special education students. The determination for a preschooler to be accepted into this program is made only after the preschool screening is failed, further diagnostic testing is completed and a recommendation for special education services is made.
3. Speech/Language Itinerant Program — this program addresses the needs of those children who are identified as needing services only in the area of Speech/language. Parents bring their child into the school one to two times a week for speech and language therapy. This determination is also the result of diagnostic testing.
Please note that enrollment in these programs is based upon
need and that criteria must be met in order to be found eligible for these
services. The first criteria is met by being a resident of
How do I know if my child should be screened?
If you have any concerns regarding your child’s cognitive, language,
motor or social development, it would be wise to have him/her screened. If you
are unsure if your child is developing at an age appropriate rate, you may
consult with your child’s preschool teacher or pediatrician. If problems
are evident, they may suggest that you register your child for our screening.
How do 1 register my child for a preschool screening?
To register your child follow these steps:
Call the Student Support Services Office
at (708) 423-0950 extension 2140
and speak with Jean Hector
The screenings will be
held monthly at 8:40am and 9:45am, at
If you know of anyone in the village who has a three or four year old
child, and who may not received this letter, please make them aware of this
information. This educational screening is provided for all