I support the add-on endorsement in Early Childhood Special Education and believe it is a necessary credential to enhance the quality of our early learning classrooms. I was personally endorsed in both Early Childhood Special Education and General Education, as this was an option at the college from which I graduated in West Virginia nearly 20 years ago.

I relied heavily on the knowledge I gained in special education to serve all preschool children, particularly because many students enter preschool with unidentified special needs. Having this training and endorsement helps teachers adequately address the needs of all learners in their classrooms.

In my current role as an administrator, it is very difficult to find teachers who hold an endorsement in Early Childhood Special Education. This is largely due to the additional coursework required beyond the standard special education endorsements for older age groups.

Additionally, Virginia needs to continue moving toward more inclusive models for all children. Providing opportunities for students with special needs to begin their education alongside their typically developing peers in preschool, supported by teachers who are trained to meet diverse learning needs, helps establish a strong foundation for inclusive practices. These practices ultimately benefit all students.