Early Childhood Education Grant

About

The Early Childhood Education (ECE) Grant provides high-quality preschool to eligible children, at low or no cost, in order to prepare them for success in kindergarten. To be awarded the distinction of "high-quality" our program maintains a Gold Level rating in Step Up To Quality (SUTQ), Ohio's tiered rating system for early learning and development centers.   We consistently meet and exceed licensing program standards to maximize your child's early educational experiences.  ECE Grant Fact Sheet

Child Eligibility

  • Four years of age by September 30th of the current school year.
  • Not age-eligible to attend kindergarten in your school district of residence.
  • Attend preschool five days a week Monday through Friday.

Family Eligibility

Eligibility is determined by the County Department of Job and Family Services (CDJFS) who is processing the application and obtaining appropriate documentation to determine if the family meets the criteria for ECE Grant funding.  The CDJFS will determine eligibility through the Ohio Benefits system.

  • Family household income must fall at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines ECE Grant Income Requirements
  • Families need to complete a Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC) application for ECE Grant funding.  All applications for Early Care and Education services will start with determining eligibility for PFCC and Child Care Choice Program (CCCP).  The ECE Grant will be explored if ineligible for PFCC and CCCP.

Application Process

Families interested in participating in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Grant program must complete a full PFCC application.  This application may be completed in two ways:

  1. Applying through the Ohio Benefits Self Service Portal ONLINE
  2. Printing a PAPER APPLICATION and mailing, faxing, or emailing your application to your local County Agency

Eligibility Documents

Families must submit the following documents when applying:

  • Proof of US Citizenship
  • Proof of Income* or any other money coming into the household (such as pay statements, tax records, award letters, child support)
  • Proof of any Child Support paid for children not living with the applicant
  • Categorical Eligibility, if not income
    • IEP signature page
    • Active Case Plan, Family Service Plan or receiving Kinship Permanency Incentive (KPI)
    • Zero Income Statement

Registration Fee for ECE-Grant Applicants

An invoice in the amount of $50 for the Registration & Supply Fee will be issued in your Brightwheel account.  Once CDJFS determines eligibility, the $50 will be refunded for 100% poverty level.  An additional invoice for Registration & Supply Fee may be issued depending on the eligibility poverty level.