"Sharp audit, sharp reply," Nov. 21, demonstrates the need for the state to work vigorously to identify and punish anyone who is stealing from the preschool special education program.
But the state must not lose sight of the enormous benefits of this program for New York's children. By intervening early, when brains have the most elasticity, preschool special education services help young children with developmental delays prepare for school, reducing long-term costs.
State data shows 89 percent of children who entered the preschool special education program below age expectations in early literacy and language substantially increased their rate of growth by the time they entered kindergarten. In the area of social relationships and social-emotional skills, 87.5 percent of children who entered the program below age expectations substantially increased their growth.
We have seen children enter general education kindergarten classes as a result of receiving intensive, specialized preschool special education services from caring teachers.
Punish the crooks. But do not punish the thousands of preschoolers who rely on these services.
RANDI LEVINE
Project Director, Early Childhood Education Project
Advocates for Children of New York
New York City