NYC Early Childhood Research Network Awarded Spencer Vision Grant to Transform Special Education Transitions for Young Children
November 19, 2025
The NYC Early Childhood Research Network has received a Spencer Foundation Vision Grant for a one-year planning project, Interagency Collaboration to Transform New York City Early Childhood Special Education Transitions. The project aims to improve how young children with disabilities and their families move from Early Intervention to preschool special education.
In New York City, Early Intervention is run by the Health Department, while preschool special education falls under NYC Public Schools. Aligning the two systems has long been a challenge, and this project is meant to generate research and insights that improve outcomes for children and families.
A 14-member team from city agencies, community organizations, and Fordham University will identify barriers in the transition process. Using root cause analysis and process mapping, the team will build on an existing conceptual framework and work toward shared goals for system change.
Research Network director Lindsey Bravo describes the project as an example of the Network's aim to bridge research, policy, and practice.