2014-2015 Highlights
Education and Early Childhood
Education & Early Childhood Overview
The Arc of Essex County’ s Department of Education and Early Childhood serves children with intellectual and developmental disabilities from birth to 10 years old and their families in Early Intervention and Education programs. Programs are designed to maximize the growth and development of children by supporting the advancement of motor, cognitive, physical, communication, and social skills. More than 90 trained staff and volunteers work with children and their families to provide the needed therapies and primary education which lay the foundation for future success. This is accomplished through:
• The Shapiro Center – an early intervention program based in the child’ s natural setting( i. e. home or daycare)
• Stepping Stones Early Intervention – a center-based, private program which includes parent-support groups
• Stepping Stones School – a Department of Education Approved Private School for the Disabled, serving children ages 3-10
2014-2015 Highlights
• Expanded the Stepping Stones School footprint to the first floor of the Roseland building, adding two additional therapy rooms and a sensory room for early intervention
• The expansion also included a conference room and two office spaces to relocate The Shapiro Center early intervention program and Children’ s Services programs including Life Management, the Home Assistance Program, and various respite services
• Delivered early intervention services to nearly 200 families through the Stepping Stones Early Intervention Program and The Shapiro Center
• Provided education to 30 students in The Stepping Stones School