What is ECEAP?
The Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) is a state-funded, "whole-child" preschool program. This program is designed for 3 and 4 year old children and families with school readiness and school success. Staff supports children's development and growth in physical, social, emotional, cognitive and creative areas. The program works in partnership with parents, the community and state and federal agencies.
Who is eligible?
Children are accepted into ECEAP based on their age, family income, or other reasons they would benefit from education, family support and health services.
Age: The ECEAP preschool program prioritize children who are 4 years old by August 31 and accept chilren who are 3 years old by August 31 when space is available.
Income: ECEAP accepts families at or below 110 percent of the federal povery level. View the ECEAP Federal Povery Level Guidlines for the 2014-2015 school year.
Up to 10% of the ECEAP children can be from families who are above the income limits. They are accepted into the program because of:
- Developmental factors, such as developmental delay, disability, or other special needs
- Environmental factors, such as family violence, chemical dependency, child protective services involvement or incarcerated parents
Other: Children who are eligible for ECEAP, when space is available, if they are:
- In foster care or involved with the child welfare system
- Homeless
- Have a Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash grant
Benefits of ECEAP
Compared to similar children who do not attend, children in programs like ECEAP are:
- Healthier when they start Kindergarten
- More likely to graduation from high school and go on to college
- More likely to be employed and to earn more as an adult
- Less likely to be in special education or repeat a grade in school
- Less likely to become pregnant as a teen or become involved in a crime
Program Options
- Half-day a.m. & p.m.
Learn More:
Washington State Department of Early Learning: www.del.wa.gov
