High-quality early learning opportunities prepare students to enter kindergarten at age 5 socially, emotionally and academically prepared for success. KSDE administers several programs that provide funding to support preschool for Kansas students. While these programs each have unique requirements, KSDE encourages local districts to offer services that support the needs of each student in inclusive environments.

The Kansas Prekindergarten Guide provides prekindergarten teachers, providers and administrators with common references for high-quality and evidence-based prekindergarten practices. The guide supports the implementation of developmentally appropriate and academically rigorous prekindergarten programs. Click here to download the guide.

Note: The name of this program has been changed to “Preschool-Aged At-Risk” to align with changes in statute.

The Preschool-Aged At-Risk Program (also known as the State Pre-K 4 Year Old At-Risk Program and the State Pre-Kindergarten Program) provides school districts with funding for preschool-aged students. Each preschool-aged at-risk student who is enrolled in a school district and receiving services is counted as 0.5 FTE in calculating a district’s enrollment and accompanying weightings. Districts are encouraged to create integrated programs that include all students and to develop strong community partnerships.

Related Materials 2019-2020
Preschool-Aged At-Risk SY2019-2020 Grant Requirements, Assurances, and Application (PDF)
Kansas Early Learning Grants Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)

Related Materials 2018-2019
State Pre-K: Four Year Old At Risk Assurances (PDF)
State Pre-Kindergarten Program Requirements 2018-19 (PDF)

The Kansas Preschool Pilot is an evidence-based program focused on implementing curriculum, instruction, and assessment practices that, when implemented with fidelity, prevent later academic and behavioral challenges in elementary and secondary educational years. The Kansas Preschool Pilot grant supports children aged 3 through 5; children eligible for kindergarten (age 5 on or before August 31) may not be served with these funds. At least 50% of the children enrolled in the Kansas Preschool Pilot must meet at least one of the at-risk criteria.

Section 619 of Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) defines the federal preschool program which guarantees a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to children with disabilities age 3 through 5. Under this program preschool children who have disabilities are entitled to Special Education and Related Services in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). The IDEA Preschool Program (Section 619) supports education services for young children with disabilities when they turn 3. It addresses individual needs within the context of developmentally appropriate activities, including early learning experiences in language, pre-reading and writing skills, play, and other social emotional areas.

Part B ECSE contact list (PDF)

The Program for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities (Part C of IDEA) is a federal grant program that assists states in operating a comprehensive statewide program of early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities, ages birth through age 2 years, and their families. Kansas Infant Toddler Services (authorized by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act - IDEA Part C) is administered by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).

Part C Contacts
Kansas Infant-Toddler Services

Special Education evaluation teams are urged to consider a general education preschool environment whenever possible due to the preponderance of research documenting the positive outcomes for both children with disabilities as well as for children without disabilities.

Joint Policy Statement on Inclusion of Children with Disabilities in Early Childhood Programs (external PDF)
U.S. Department of Education Dear Colleague Letter (external PDF)

Children with IEPs will not generate Preschool-Aged At-Risk funding, but will generate the equivalent of 0.5 FTEs of Special Education funding. The appropriate teacher-to-child ratio must be maintained (not to exceed 25 students per classroom with a ratio of 1:10).

Information Regarding Early Childhood Special Education Data
Indicator 6 and 7: Kansas Part B/619 Early Childhood Outcomes Information
Indicator 7: Early Childhood Outcomes/Outcome Web System
Indicator 12: Transition from C to B

Technical Assistance Requests/Packets
Technical Assistance System Network (TASN)
Kansas Inservice Training System (KITS)

Additional Resources for Parents
Families Together Inc.
Parent's Rights
Kansas Parent Information Resource Center

Kansas Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Developmental Services (State Interagency Coordinating Council)
This council is responsible for advising and assisting the Kansas governor and legislature on matters that impact Kansas families with children ages birth to 5 who have, or are at risk for, developmental delays. Visit www.kansasicc.org for additional information.

Guidance for Educators
Where Can Early Childhood Educators Look For Employment? (PDF)
Early Childhood Programs/Settings Acceptable as "Accredited Experience" Related to Licensure Upgrade/Renewal (PDF)

Guidance for Administrators
Who Can I Hire as a Teacher/Early Interventionist (PDF)
Which Kansas License works in which Early Childhood Education Setting for Categorical Aid? (PDF)