Welcome to Early Stages!
We are proud to be a resource for DC’s youngest learners, their families, and our city’s communities. We first opened our doors at the Walker-Jones Education Campus in October 2009. We have been learning and growing ever since - just like the children we serve. Each year on average, we:
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Receive over 1,500 referrals
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Receive referrals from almost 200 organizations across the District
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Find up to 1,000 children eligible for special education
Along with newly referred children, we work with children who were previously found eligible by their Local Education Agency (LEA). We offer eligible children the opportunity to receive services in a DCPS school.
We receive referrals from parents, teachers, doctors, and the community. Anyone with questions about how a child is playing, learning, or developing, can refer them to Early Stages. The experts at our family-friendly centers partner with each family to discover how their child learns. If their child needs support, we explain how that would be provided in school. An evaluation at Early Stages provides parents free expert information about their child. This information can help parents support their children at home and at school.
At Early Stages, we strive to be a resource for all families who have questions or concerns about a child’s development. We know that addressing the needs of children with delays and disabilities supports their learning and growth. We believe strong beginnings lead to bright futures.
Sean Compagnucci
Executive Director