Preschool Frequently Asked Questions
We know choosing a preschool and understanding the enrollment process can come with a lot
of questions. The Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center (NwOESC) works with local
school districts to provide preschool opportunities for young children throughout Defiance,
Fulton, Henry, and Williams counties.
Below are answers to some of the questions families frequently ask about our preschool
programs.
General Information
What is the NwOESC Preschool Program?
NwOESC partners with local school districts to provide high-quality preschool programming for
young children. Our classrooms are designed to support children's academic, social-emotional,
communication, motor, and independence skills while helping prepare them for a successful
transition to kindergarten.
Our preschool classrooms serve children with a variety of abilities and learning needs in an
inclusive environment.
Where are NwOESC preschool classrooms located?
NwOESC operates preschool classrooms in school districts throughout Defiance, Fulton, Henry,
and Williams counties.
Fulton County
*Archbold
*Delta
*Pettisville
*Swanton
Williams County
*Edon
*Edgerton
*Montpelier
*North Central
*Stryker
*West Unity
Defiance County
*Ayersville
*Central Local
*Defiance City
*Hicksville
*Tinora
Henry County
*Holgate
*Liberty Center
*Napoleon
*Patrick Henry
Classroom availability and enrollment opportunities may vary by district.
Enrollment
How do I enroll my child in preschool?
The enrollment process depends on your child's school district and the type of preschool
placement being considered. Families will be asked to complete online registration and provide
required enrollment documents before their child can begin attending.
NwOESC uses the 5 Star Registration system as part of the preschool registration process.
Families will receive instructions regarding the forms and documentation needed for their child.
What documents do I need to enroll my child in preschool?
To complete preschool enrollment, families are required to:
*Complete the online enrollment forms
*Provide a current proof of residence (submitted yearly)
*Provide a copy of the child’s birth certificate
*Provide the child’s current immunization records (submitted yearly)
All required enrollment forms and documentation must be submitted before your child can begin
attending preschool.
How much does preschool cost?
Preschool tuition varies by school district.
Is financial assistance available?
Financial assistance may be available to qualifying families through programs such as Ohio's
Preschool Program (OPP) Grant. Eligibility requirements apply, and funding availability may
vary.
Families who believe they may qualify are encouraged to ask about available assistance during
the enrollment process.
Preschool Screenings & Child Find
What is a preschool screening?
A preschool screening is a way to look at a child's development in areas such as
communication, motor skills, thinking and learning, social-emotional development, and self-help
skills.
Early Childhood Screenings can help identify children who may benefit from additional support
or further evaluation. Screenings begin in late February and run through April.
What is Child Find?
Child Find is the process public schools use to identify, locate, and evaluate children who may
have a disability and may be eligible for special education and related services.
What should I do if I am concerned about my child's development?
If you have concerns about your child's speech and language, learning, behavior, motor
development, social-emotional skills, or other areas of development, contact your local school
district.
If you have concerns about your preschool-aged child's development, you do not have to wait
until kindergarten to ask for help. Contact our office at 567-444-4818.
Does a screening mean my child needs special education?
No. A screening is not the same as a special education evaluation, and participating in a
screening does not automatically mean that a child will qualify for special education services.
A screening helps determine whether additional evaluation or support may be needed.
Evaluations & Special Education
What happens if my child is referred for a special education evaluation?
If there are concerns that your child may have a disability that affects their education, the school
district may begin the evaluation process.
Families are an important part of this process. The school team will explain the evaluation
procedures, obtain the required parent consent, gather information about your child's
development and educational needs, and review the results with you.
What is an ETR?
ETR stands for Evaluation Team Report. The ETR documents the results of a special
education evaluation and helps the team determine whether a child meets Ohio's eligibility
requirements for special education and related services.
Parents are members of the evaluation team and participate in reviewing the information and
discussing their child's needs.
What is an IEP?
IEP stands for Individualized Education Program. If a child is eligible for special education
services, the IEP team develops an individualized plan based on the child's unique strengths
and needs.
The IEP identifies areas the child will work on, the special education and related services the
child will receive, and other supports needed to help the child participate and make progress in
preschool.
Parents are important members of the IEP team and are encouraged to participate throughout
the process.
Will my child have to attend a special classroom if they have an IEP?
Not necessarily. Preschool special education services are based on each child's individual
needs.
NwOESC preschool classrooms provide opportunities for children with and without disabilities to
learn and grow together. The child's educational team, including the parent or guardian,
determines appropriate services and placement through the IEP process.
Typical Peer Preschool Students
What is a typical peer preschool student?
Typical peer students are typically developing preschool-aged children who participate in our
inclusive classrooms alongside children receiving special education services.
Typical peer students have opportunities to learn, play, build friendships, and develop
kindergarten-readiness skills in a classroom that includes children with a wide range of abilities.
How can I enroll my child as a typical peer student?
Typical peer enrollment opportunities vary by school district and classroom availability. Families
interested in a typical peer preschool placement should contact our office for information about
availability and the enrollment process.
Enrollment is not guaranteed and may depend on available classroom openings.
Transportation
Is transportation provided for preschool?
Transportation arrangements vary depending on the child's school district, placement, and
individual circumstances.
Families should discuss transportation during the enrollment or IEP process to determine what
transportation options apply to their child. Some districts offer transportation to typical peers
also.
Who do I contact if my child's transportation changes?
Families should communicate transportation changes as soon as possible using the procedures
provided by their child's school district. Advance notice helps ensure that your child is
transported safely and that everyone involved has accurate information.
Preparing for Preschool
What can I expect when my child starts preschool?
Starting preschool is an exciting transition! Children will have opportunities to participate in
classroom routines, play, learning activities, movement, communication, social interaction, and
other developmentally appropriate experiences.
Teachers and classroom staff work to create a welcoming environment where children can build
independence, confidence, friendships, and skills that will help prepare them for kindergarten.
How can I help my child prepare for preschool?
Families can help make the transition easier by talking positively about school and practicing
simple routines at home. Encourage your child to practice age-appropriate independence skills
such as putting on a coat, washing hands, cleaning up toys, following simple directions, and
communicating their needs.
Reading together, playing, talking about your child's day, and maintaining consistent routines
are also wonderful ways to support learning and development.
How will I communicate with my child's preschool teacher?
Communication between families and school staff is an important part of a successful preschool
experience. Your child's teacher will provide information about classroom communication
procedures, important dates, school activities, and ways to contact the classroom.
If you have a question or concern about your child, we encourage you to communicate with your
child's teacher.