Please see this important information about a new state law that may affect your child. Beginning September 4, 2025, responsibility for special education services for children ages 4–5 will shift from Child Development Services (CDS) to local public school districts. For families in Saco, this means the Saco School Department will assume responsibility for your child’s special education services.
What Does This Change Mean for My Child?
Under this new law, your child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) will be developed, implemented, and overseen by the Saco School Department. Services outlined in your child’s IEP will be provided either by school district staff or by contracted service providers, such as speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, or physical therapists.
If your child’s current provider contracts with the Saco School Department, services may continue with that same provider. Our highest priority is ensuring a smooth transition with as little disruption as possible for your child.
All paperwork, including IEPs, written notices, and parental permission forms, will now be managed by the Saco School Department. Your child’s case manager will be a member of our staff, and we will be reaching out soon to introduce you to them and provide their contact information.
Please know that your child’s current services will remain in place unless changes are agreed upon in a future IEP meeting, of which you are always an essential team member. Current service providers will remain the same through at least September 3, 2025. Should a change in provider become necessary, we will notify you well in advance.
Who Do I Contact With Questions?
For questions about your child’s services, you may reach out to:
PreK Special Services Site Administrator: J’Aime Walker – jwalker@sacoschools.org
Special Services District IEP Administrator: Kelsey Noyes – knoyes@sacoschools.org
Looking Ahead
We are committed to making this transition as seamless as possible for both you and your child. We look forward to working in partnership with you as your child continues to receive special education services and as they transition to kindergarten. Please note that children who turn 5 years old before October 15 will enter kindergarten in that school year.
Thank you for your support and trust as we move forward together.