Easterseals Southwest Florida welcomes families to new school year

One of the tenets of local nonprofit Easterseals Southwest Florida is that the organization proudly serves those who may come just once for a specific service as well as those seeking services, education, therapy and support from preschool through adulthood. As children across the state return to school, the focus is on school-age children and there's a unique opportunity for area families seeking something different: there are limited openings at both the Lily Preschool (early education, open to all children) and Easterseals Academy (kindergarten through age 22, for children with therapy needs).

Families interested in learning more about these programs are invited to attend an Enrollment Fair on Saturday, October 17 from 9:30 a.m.-noon at Easterseals Southwest Florida's main campus (350 Braden Ave., Sarasota). There will be tours of the facility, with staff and enrollment specialists on hand to answer questions and help start the process of becoming a student.

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Lily Preschool is a licensed early childhood education program, serving children from 6 weeks to 5 years old. This inclusive learning community is open to all children – not limited to those with therapy needs – fostering a welcoming and varied peer community. Lily Preschool utilizes Creative Curriculum as the foundation of a developmentally appropriate, interactive learning environment. Lily Preschool is accredited through the National Accreditation Commission (NAC), meeting high standards in curriculum, safety and teacher qualifications.

Easterseals Academy enrolls students from kindergarten through age 22. This program specializes in serving individuals who have developmental, physical, learning and mild behavioral disabilities, as well as autism. The school is dedicated to enriching each student's life through a holistic, whole-person and highly individualized approach to education.

In a typical year, both of these programs would have waiting lists but now – with the Malcolm Family Autism Center of Excellence poised to open in January – there are limited spaces available. Once the new Autism Center opens, there will be additional room for new families as well as new and expanded services available to the community.

"Our schools offer a wonderful and unique environment that sets Easterseals education programs apart," said Brittany Swift, Assistant Vice President of Programs. "People are often surprised to learn that approximately 40 percent of our preschool students do not require therapy; this helps all students to enjoy differentiated instruction as well as to develop high emotional intelligence and empathy. For students who do need therapy, both the preschool and Easterseals Academy feature small class sizes, individualized learning plans, beneficial enrichment opportunities, and so much more."

To start the process for enrollment, please reach out to the case management team by calling (941-355-7637) or emailing (casemanagement@easterseals-swfl.org). Enrollment is on a rolling basis.

To learn more about the Lily Preschool and Easterseals Academy, visit easterseals-swfl.org/our-programs.

About Easterseals Southwest Florida
Since 1946, Easterseals Southwest Florida has supported individuals with disabilities to live their best lives and be engaged in their communities. The organization offers help and hope to children and adults with disabilities, working to ensure all abilities of all ages have the opportunity to shine. From child development, autism, family support and veteran services to artistic expression, therapeutic, diagnostic, and educational delivery, Easterseals offers a variety of ways to help people with disabilities and their families address life's challenges, achieve personal goals and feel included and valued in everything they do. Visit easterseals-swfl.org.