The Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning supports families and their children from prenatal through school age by using data, research and stakeholder guidance to assure high quality services.
Action Required: Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts Request for Applications Announced
Letters of Intent due May 5, 2017
Pennsylvania's fiscal year (FY) 2017-18 proposed budget makes historic investments in education to prepare our children for the jobs of tomorrow, including an additional $75 million more for early childhood education. With new investments in Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts ($65 million) and the Head Start Supplemental Assistance Program ($10 million), the state will be able to increase the number of children served in high-quality pre-kindergarten by 36 percent. The proposal in the FY 2017-18 Executive Budget represents the further steps toward achieving the goal of universal access to high quality pre-kindergarten programs. Please note that funding is contingent upon approval by the Pennsylvania legislature.
The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) is seeking applicants for Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts. Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts was enacted into law by Act 45 of 2007 (and amended in 2008 and 2010) amending the Public School Code of 1949 (24 P.S. ยงยง 15- 1511-D-15-1516-D). Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts provides children with the opportunity to experience a high quality pre-kindergarten program. The program standards ensure a high return on the investment in the preparation of young children for school and will help to close the achievement gap. Early education through Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts can open the doors of opportunity for every child to do well in school, in the workforce, and in life.
PDE is issuing this Request for Applications now in order to support providers in preparing to serve children and to assist in being ready for enrollment by September. We recognize that providers need to conduct outreach to families; recruit, hire and train staff; and do all of the planning necessary to successfully implement the program pending approval of proposed funding.
This competitive opportunity will select eligible grantees for a one-year grant period beginning in FY 2017-18. Please note, a full competition for funding will occur in FY 2018-19.
Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts applicants MUST complete a REQUIRED Letter of Intent using the template
Deadline for submitting a Letter of Intent is by 3 pm on May 5, 2017.
Please visit the PA Key website for additional details, including Program Requirements, Letters of Intent, Pre-Application webinar, and important requirements for application.
The Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) provides families access to high quality services to prepare children for school and life success.
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The Pennsylvania Early Childhood Education News is a project of the Pennsylvania Build Initiative and the Pennsylvania Departments of Education and Human Services to inform early learning professionals, the early childhood community, policymakers, community leaders and the public on developments in early childhood education and care in Pennsylvania.
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