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Early Childhood Education Grant Program—Ages 3 to 5

The Early Childhood Education Grant Program is intended to support the development of children in the birth to kindergarten age range through the provision of comprehensive center- based programs. In most cases the projects expand and/or combine existing pre-kindergarten programs funded through district, federal, or parent fees, including Head Start. Each project receives funding for up to one-half of the total operating budget of the project per year on a continuing basis, subject to availability of the funds. A public school or an educational service unit is the fiscal agent.

Funded projects are required to operate in compliance with Rule 11 Regulations for Early Childhood Education Grant Program. Rule 11 reflects research-based elements of quality early childhood education programs intended to produce strong outcomes for children.

Such elements of quality include:

  • a strong family involvement/education component recognizing the central role of parents in their children's development and learning;
  • well-trained staff and optimum staff and child ratios in programs providing direct services to children;
  • developmentally and linguistically appropriate and culturally sensitive curriculum, practices, and assessment;
  • sensitivity to the economic and logistical needs and circumstances of families in the provision of services;
  • integration of children of diverse social and economic characteristics;
  • inclusion of children with disabilities;
  • a sound evaluation component;
  • continuity with programs in kindergarten and elementary grades;
  • procedures to ensure participating children and families have access to comprehensive nutrition, (including at least one meal per day) and health and social services; and,
  • a parent/community advisory group which provides substantive ongoing direction to the program.

Evaluation Progress Reports

For further information, please contact Linda Meyers at linda.meyers@nebraska.gov or 402-471-2980.