Peer Model Application
Peer Models in Early Childhood Preschool Programs
Germantown Municipal School currently has eight early childhood preschool programs located in our four elementary schools that serve students identified with disabilities, ages 3-5. The GMSD Early Childhood Preschool Program is an excellent learning environment that offers preschoolers, with and without disabilities, a challenging instructional experience to provide maximum growth in all developmental areas.
The Peer Model Program provides an opportunity for typically developing children to be integrated into our Early Childhood classrooms to serve as role models four our children with disabilities. Peer models provide positive peer interaction, demonstrate play skills, and model appropriate language and behavior for children with disabilities while in the classroom setting. If at any point during the year, your child does not demonstrate these behaviors, you will be asked to leave the program. If false information is provided on your application, this will also result in dismissal from the program.
All GMSD preschool classrooms currently have seven to ten peer models selected to serve as role models for students with disabilities. Each of the eight programs offers intentional learning activities in small and large groups that are facilitated by a preschool teacher and educational assistants. Our goal is to provide our students with a strong foundation of core skills to be successful in kindergarten and beyond.
*Number of classrooms, classroom design, and peers needed are fluid based on annual district and student needs.*
Screening Process
The screening process includes one session within a preschool classroom at the school in which you are zoned to attend. Your child will engage in classroom activities focused on play-based activities that allow teachers and staff to observe their interactions with same-age peers. Observations will be documented and a rubric will be scored during this session to look at the following areas: readiness, problem solving, language, communication, social skills, and motor skills. Results will be totaled, and the children who score the highest will be offered a spot as a positive peer model.
Positive peer model spots are limited in number. Please remember that not all students who participate in the screening process will be offered a spot as a positive peer model.
Estimated Timeline of Application & Screening Process
Applications
The application window opens January 6, 2025 and closes on January 19, 2025.
*Applications must be submitted by January 19, 2025. Late applications will not be considered.*
Screening Appointments
For those selected for a screening appointment, an email covering scheduling will be sent to their parent by January 24, 2025.
Screening appointments (one session lasting approximately two hours) will take place at your zoned school during January 27, 2025 and February 7, 2025.
Results
Parents will receive an email no later than March 1, 2025 regarding their child's screening results.
Peer Model Applications
Click on your zoned school's logo to apply. Applications open on January 6, 2025.