Montgomery County Public Schools

Preschool Education Program (PEP)

PEP provides preschool special education services for children aged 3 to 5 with identified disabilities in Montgomery County. PEP operates on a transdiciplinary model of best practices in Early Childhood Special Education.

PEP Program Description

PEP is a non-categorical program serving children with a variety of disabilities. Most children who receive PEP services have moderate learning delays in more than one area of development.

All children in PEP have an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP includes learning goals and objectives based on needs identified through formal evaluations. Staff use the learning goals and objectives as a guide to assist students in acquiring skills that children their age have already learned.

Many children enrolled in PEP receive related services such as speech/language, occupational, and/or physical therapy. Parent education may also be provided.
 

PEP Philosophy

PEP’s philosophy is based on the premise that early intervention is effective in addressing learning deficits. PEP identifies strategies to offset the impact of educational disabilities in young children.

Developmental skills such as communication, exploration, movement, play and socialization are essential for all children. Some children with disabilities need specialized intervention to gain the skills necessary for kindergarten.

PEP staff members collaborate in order address the individual goals and objectives of students. Services are provided in the least restrictive environment, including community settings.

Resources

• Montgomery County Infants and Toddlers Program: Birth to 3 years of age
• Child Find: 3 to 5 years of age
• Healthy Beginnings
• Maryland Early Learning Standards