Preschool Program » Preschool Program

Preschool Program

Neighborhood Peers Program

What is The Neighborhood Peer Program About?

The Peer Model Preschool Program is part of the Johnston Public Schools Special Education Early Childhood program which serves preschool children with developmental delays. We are excited to offer openings for typically developing children, 3 1/2 to 5 years old, to participate in an enriched learning environment focused on developing communication and language, social, self-help, motor and cognitive skills. Early literacy and math skills are emphasized and align with RI Early Learning & Development Standards. Peer models also learn leadership and helping skills by modeling appropriate play and communication for their classmates with developmental delays.


For more information about:

Peer Model Preschool at Graniteville School:
401-231-8790 x2500

Child Outreach Screening:
401-231-8790 x2502

 

FAQs - Neighborhood Peer Integrated Program for Preschool Children

 

What is the maximum class size?

The maximum number of students per class is fifteen. Per state regulations, 51% of the students must be typically developing for the classroom to be considered an integrated special education classroom. Thus, there are eight typically developing students and seven students whose IEP's deem a classroom placement necessary to meet educational goals.

 

Is there a cost for the program?

Federal regulations require that students with Individualized Education Plans are serviced under FAPE, or free appropriate public education. However, there is a charge for typically developing students as preschool placement is not regulatory in our state. The current fee is $200.00 per month.

 

How are peer models chosen?

Completed applications are accepted for enrollment into the program on a first come first served basis. Completed applications may be dropped off or mailed to:

 

Graniteville Early Childhood Center Annex
6 Collins Ave
Johnston, RI 0291

 

Can I choose which session I want my child to attend?

We can not guarantee a morning or afternoon session based on your needs. Due to the nature of our program, we try to balance out the number of students in our AM/PM session with the needs of our students in the special education program. You are invited to share your preference of session. Generally speaking, younger children are given AM sessions due to the fact that they often tire more quickly than older peers.

 

Can I choose the days my child attends?

Our program is a five day program that runs Monday through Friday. The expectation is that typically developing peers have the ability and stamina to attend each session.

 

Does my child need to be toilet trained?

Yes, all typically developing students must have achieved this milestone in their development. They must be completely independent and able to consistently use the bathroom on their own.

 

Is there transportation?

Yes, all Peer Models are given the opportunity to sign up for transportation to and from school on the School Bus. All students that take the bus are picked up at their house and dropped off at their house. Once a School Bus form is completed it takes approximately 10 school days for your child to be placed on a school bus route.

 

 

Our Preschool Program

 

Each class is integrated to include students with disabilities and typical peers from the community!

 

Curriculum

Our preschool curriculum is aligned with the Rhode Island Early Learning and Development Standards (RIELDS) and provides:

  • Specially designed instruction

  • Opportunities for learning within the context of a structured predictable routine

  • Collaborative work with family and related service providers in the areas of:

    • Approaches to Learning
    • Social & Emotional Development
    • Language Development & Communication
    • Literacy
    • Mathematics
    • Science
    • Creativity
    • Physical Health & Development

For more information about RIELDS, please visit: www.ride.ri.gov/els/doc.asp

 

Eligibility for Neighborhood Peers

  • Johnston Resident (proof of residency required)
  • Toilet trained
  • Updated Immunization Records
  • Birth Certificate
  • Child must be at least 3.5 years of age. All eligibility requirements must be completed and submitted by 04-14-2017.

 

For Child Outreach Screening information, call 401-231-8790 ext. 2502

 

Where Does the Peer Program Take Place?

 

Location

Graniteville School

6 Collins Avenue

Johnston, RI 02919

 

Age Requirement

at least 3.5 years old

by September 1st

 

School Times

AM Session-8:15-11:00

OR

PM Session-11:45-2:30

 

Tuition

$200.00 per month

5 Half Days per week
Monday- Friday

 

Transportation available (See FAQ)