§407.5. Early childhood programs; qualifications; funding

            A. Any nonsectarian early childhood program may apply for funding, regardless of the sponsorship of the program. Local school systems may apply for funding to operate early childhood programs, excluding public school kindergarten, however, a qualified early childhood program need not be affiliated with a school system in order to receive funding.

            B. A local to state funding match shall be required in the ratio of twenty to eighty percent, except that the department, with the approval of its governing authority, may waive the local match for programs of special merit or may designate other grants or funding sources as satisfying the local match. The local match may consist of cash or appropriate in-kind services, or both.

            C. To be considered, an application shall contain all information required by the department's regulatory guidelines, including information concerning program content, educational curriculum models, and plans for compliance with all appropriate regulations. The department shall provide or make available technical assistance to qualified local programs that require assistance in program development in accordance with the grant application.

            D. The department, with the approval of its governing authority shall select for funding those applications which comply with the programmatic standards and other relevant criteria as developed.

            E. All early childhood programs funded pursuant to the provisions of this Part shall be developmentally appropriate and individualized to meet the needs of each student enrolled.

            F. The department shall work to develop model curricula and curriculum guidelines to encourage establishment of appropriate early childhood programs serving children who are economically disadvantaged.

            G. All center-based programs funded pursuant to the provisions of this Part shall comply with applicable existing rules and regulations, including but not limited to child care licensing requirements and federal guidelines for Head Start Centers.

            Acts 1992, No. 970, §1, eff. July 9, 1992; Acts 2018, No. 307, §1.