Improving Outcomes for Children with Special Needs

Population Count

Rhode Island is home to nearly 22,000 children with disabilities between the ages of 5 and 20, according to the 2000 census.

A Needed Voice

Low-income and minority families are more likely to have a child with a disability, yet less likely to contribute to policy and program design.

The Bright Side

The Chicago Longitudinal Study found that extended early intervention reduced special education placement for preschool participants by 41% while resulting in a sevenfold return on investment.

Students At Risk

During Rhode Island’s 2001-2002 school year, 28% of suspensions involved children with special needs.

An Emotional Toll

Nationally, kids with disabilities are more likely to report feeling sad or depressed compared to their more typical peers (31% versus 17%, respectively).

Employment Impact

In Rhode Island, 26% of parents who have a child with special health care needs report cutting work hours to care for their child; 10% quit work altogether.