Preschool Program
The Andover Public Schools Preschool Program is an inclusive, multi-sensory prekindergarten program that serves both children with special needs and typically developing children from Andover, often referred to as "peers".
The model is the integration of children with varying abilities. Individual, as well as small and large group activities are designed to guarantee that all children are challenged and that all children learn in a safe, progressive environment.
The classrooms provide children with opportunities to flourish and actively participate in activities that foster growth and development in a manner that seeks to stimulate and nurture a genuine love for learning.
Although children who are not diagnosed with a developmental delay are often referred to as community peers, it must be emphasized that we believe that every child truly possesses strengths and attributes that allow him or her to impact the education and development of another child in a very positive and tangible way. For example, a child who demonstrates a language delay may excel in cognitive, motor and/or social skills. Peer partnerships are indeed valuable educational resources as children learn best from other children.
We envision the children who participate in this program will recognize at an early age that while each individual is different, each individual nevertheless has much to offer, and thus belongs to our community.
The Preschool Program follows the Andover Public Schools calendar year.
Preschool curriculum is aligned with the Mass. Department of Education Preschool Learning Experiences and Early Childhood Program Standards.
Preschool Special Education Services
Children with special needs are referred to the program by Early Intervention, private preschool teachers, parents and pediatricians. Following the receipt of the referral, an assessment will be conducted. An evaluation team meeting will be held to determine if the child is eligible for a program due to the child's needs.
The Andover Public Schools conducts screening for 3- and 4-year-old preschool children in the community on the 3rd Friday of every month.
The screening is completely voluntary and available to parents who have a concern about their child's development. Screening results help to indicate whether more specific information or evaluation in a particular area of development is needed. The screening is conducted by members of the special education staff and provides information about a child's functioning in the areas of speech and language ability, fine and gross motor skills, and overall cognitive growth.
Preschool Peer Program
Peer Screenings take place the 2nd Friday of the month during the hours of 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. by appointment only.
Children must be 2.9 years of age to be eligible for screening but cannot start the program until they turn 3 years old.
The approximate 30 minute screening involves a brief overview of fine motor, gross motor, cognitive and language skills. While the child is being screened by the team, the parent will fill out a brief questionnaire. We are seeking peers who can act in an age appropriate manner, follow directions, and play independently while separating easily from the parent.
All peer students must be fully toilet trained with no pull-ups.
Screening/Rolling Admission
We operate on a rolling admission, so children can enroll in the program throughout the year. Children must be 3 years old and pass a screening before enrollment. Call Colleen in the main office at 978-247-8200 to schedule a screening.