The Build Up Evaluation Team provides a developmental assessment for preschool age children not already enrolled in a public school program to determine if they qualify for special education services. It is a collaborative service with the Early On program and will see children after they turn 36 months of age.

A team of professionals will provide a screening, as well as multidisciplinary evaluations to determine eligibility for special education. They will assist the parent in investigating appropriate programs and/or services available for their child.

Any interested parent or care provided may refer their preschool age child suspected of significant developmental delays in the following areas:

Physical
Cognitive
Vision
Hearing
Speech and Language
Autism

To inquire about services or make a referral to our Build Up Evaluation Team call: (269) 539-5152.

For children under three years of age a referral may be made directly to the Early On Program: (269) 539-5128 or (269) 539-5129.

If your child is enrolled in a private or public school in Van Buren County and you have a concern regarding a significant delay or suspect a disability, you should contact their teacher or our Early Childhood Special Education Supervisor at (269) 539-5144.

Concerns regarding a preschool age child currently enrolled in your local school district Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) should also be referred to their teacher and local school administrator. VBISD special education service providers are assigned to each of the GSRP in our local districts.

The VBISD Special Education Early Childhood Department operates six preschool level classrooms located in Covert (Covert Elementary), Paw Paw (Cedar Street Early Childhood Center)., and Mattawan (Mattawan Early Childhood Education Center). The children served within these classrooms have a wide range of abilities and educational needs. Placement for eligible children is recommended through the Individualized Education Plan process. In addition to a certified special education teacher, ancillary (SLP, OT, PT) and paraprofessional support the classrooms.

Early Childhood (Birth-5)

Build Up

Family Links

Great Start Collaborative

GSRP

Help Me Grow

Special Education