The Seattle Department of Education & Early Learning is now welcoming submissions for their Seattle Preschool Program (SPP), targeting center-based early learning providers who are looking to either join the program or broaden their current SPP engagement. As per the announcement, changes in eligibility criteria now mean that organizations previously ineligible can step forward and participate in the growing academic initiative.
With the vision of enhancing school readiness and ongoing educational success for children aged 3 and 4, this initiative relies on the 2018 Families, Education, Preschool, and Promise Levy. An approximate sum of $3 million is earmarked for this purpose, specifically to add nine new preschool classrooms slated for the 2025-26 academic year. These could manifest as a combination of new partnerships forged through the Request for Qualifications, extended classrooms of current SPP providers, or direct contracts with qualifying entities.
Interested center-based programs, including those operating in Seattle Public Schools buildings, are encouraged by the department to apply. However, Family Child Care (FCC) programs have a different route for involvement. FCC programs are directed to reach out to SPP's FCC Hub administrators at organizations such as BrightSpark Early Learning Services or Tiny Tots Early Learning Collaborative, as specified in the original RFQ announcement.
With the education system constantly evolving, this move paves the way for widened access to quality early learning experiences in the Seattle area. The Seattle Preschool Program is making a concerted effort to ensure that children from all backgrounds get a fair start. Providers who've been out of the loop previously are now getting another chance to contribute their voices and expertise to the city's educational fabric.
