Region 15 To Offer "Friends Together" Program in the 2007-2008 School Year

Region 15 will again offer an exciting educational opportunity for selected four year 
old children in the 2007-08 school year.  The Early Childhood Special Education 
Program currently located at Long Meadow Elementary School is looking for four-
year-old children to participate in the pre-school classroom as role models for their 
peers with special needs.

Children selected as role models will participate in an age appropriate curriculum that 
will foster cognitive and social growth in preparation for kindergarten.  This program is 
play based and language rich.  Children learn to share, take turns, and work as a team 
when completing tasks.  Development of self-esteem is an important component of this 
program as well.  As the children become more aware of their abilities and help one 
another learn, they experience the benefits of improved self-confidence.

The "Friends Together" program will follow the Region 15 school calendar.  Morning 
sessions are held 9:00 - 11:30 and afternoon sessions 1:00 - 3:30.  Tuition rates will 
be shared at time of screening.

Children will be screened and selected based on strong language skills and 
appropriate social/peer interactions.  Depending on level of interest, a lottery system 
may be implemented, if necessary.

The screening and selection process will take place February 15, 2007.  For further 
information and/or application, please call the office of Student Services, at 758-8259, 
ext. 2.