| This study explored the possible reasons behind the significantly low percentage of children served in preschool special education in the state of Hawai'i compared with the state of Massachusetts. This difference is striking due to the similarities the two states share in: (1) a high percentage of infants and toddlers (0 through 2 years) served in early intervention, (2) eligibility criteria for early intervention services and preschool special education, and (3) lead agency providing early intervention services. The research focused on understanding this difference in the percentage of children served in preschool special education by: (1) contrasting and comparing the transition policies and processes implemented at the state level, (2) determining the factors that contribute to successful transitions from early intervention to preschool special education, and (3) exploring the factors which contribute to families' decision in continuing or discontinuing services from early intervention services to preschool special education. |
