Perceptions of Early Childhood Special Education: Surveys of Superintendents and Parents in Washington State

Abstract

Future directions for early childhood special education have been hard to predict. Attitudes among local influential groups are an important variable in that prediction, because the local level is where conflicting opinions about early childhood education must ultimately be resolved. The researchers examined the attitudes of two very influential local groups—school superintendents and parents of handicapped children—regarding early childhood education. School officials were asked about their existing early childhood programs and how they viewed these services and a possible mandate for service to 3- and 4-year olds. Parents were asked about services received and their satisfaction and future needs. Superintendents expressed generally strong support for a preschool mandate, despite declining revenues. Parents overwhelmingly found present services adequate or better and advocated continued early childhood programs for handicapped children.