Early ACCESS is the system implemented by the State of Iowa to serve eligible children from birth to age three and their families. Children are eligible for Early ACCESS services if they have a developmental delay or have a condition that has a high probability of later delays if early intervention services are not provided. Agencies participating in Early ACCESS are the Department of Human Services, Child Health Specialty Clinics, Public Health, and the Department of Education which is the lead agency in the State of Iowa.

All services are family-centered, aimed at enhancing the child’s growth and development and the family’s capacity to support their child. Services are coordinated across agency lines to assist families in obtaining the resources, services and assistance needed. Des Moines Public School’s Early ACCESS staff includes:

Intervention services are offered at no cost to families and are provided in the home, hospital, or childcare settings.

Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) services are available for eligible children ages three to kindergarten age at no cost to families. ECSE staff assist in the identification, assessment and development of an individualized educational plan for eligible children. A variety of service options are available and are tailored to meet the individual needs of each student. Options include ECSE visiting teacher model, integrated classroom settings with Head Start and Des Moines Public School fee-based, and self contained. ECSE classrooms are located throughout Des Moines in comprehensive schools and off site locations.