Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) is a city wide program in the St. Paul Public Schools that serves young children with special education needs age birth through kindergarten enrollment.  Children who receive ECSE services have identified special education needs as defined by the special education eligibility criteria established by the State of Minnesota.  Children qualify for ECSE services through a special education evaluation.

The Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) program in the St. Paul Public Schools provides a range of special education services in a variety of settings including home, community and school-based early childhood programs, and ECSE center-based locations.  Special education services are provided to children and their families based on an individualized special education plan which considers the strengths and needs of the child and family.