Breaking Barriers: Designing an Effective Early Intervention Process for Enhanced Developmental Outcomes in Private Schools

Author

Breanne Kristen Cox, Lynn University

Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Granting Institution

Lynn University

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EDD)

Degree Program

Educational Leadership

Department

College of Education

First Advisor

Dr. Jennifer J. Lesh

Second Advisor

Dr. Brittany E. Kiser

Third Advisor

Dr. Kathleen Weigel

Abstract

The challenge of ensuring inclusive and equitable support for students with disabilities is increasingly prominent in education, particularly in private school settings. This dissertation explored the implementation and effectiveness of an early literacy intervention process, the “Bright Beginnings Boost Initiative,” in a small Montessori preschool in South Florida. The study addresses the gap in support services for students with disabilities in private schools, which often lack the comprehensive frameworks mandated by public education systems under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Through a qualitative two-phase action research design, this study gathered insights from preschool teachers, the preschool director, the school counselor, and parents of students who participated in the intervention process. Phase one involved semi-structured interviews to identify key themes, while phase two used surveys to rank these themes identified during the interview process in order of importance, providing a structured assessment of the implementation process components.

Findings revealed significant themes, including the need for additional professional development, effective communication strategies, and the critical role of administrative support in implementing an early literacy process. The study underscored the importance of tailored training programs and open communication channels among educators and parents to enhance the efficacy of implementing an early reading process.

This research contributed to the limited literature on special education services in private schools and offers practical recommendations for improving early intervention processes. By addressing these critical areas, the “Bright Beginnings Boost Initiative” aims to bridge the gap in educational support, fostering a more inclusive and effective learning environment.

Recommended Citation

Cox, B. K. (2025). Breaking barriers: Designing an effective early intervention process for enhanced developmental outcomes in private schools [Doctoral dissertation, Lynn University]. SPIRAL. https://spiral.lynn.edu/etds/428/