Race to the Top-Early Learning Challenge Applications Now Available
The final application is now available for the second Race to the Top-Early Learning Challenge (RTT-ELC), which puts $280 million up for grabs in the form of state-level competitive grants.
Designed "to improve the quality of early learning and development programs and close educational gaps for children with high needs," RTT-ELC "also supports states’ efforts to design and implement an integrated system of high-quality early learning and development programs and services," according to information released by the United States Department of Education.
Funds will be awarded in amounts ranging from $37.5 million to $75 million, depending on the proposal and the number of children five-years-old and under from low-income families as compared to the United States as a whole.
"Our goal is to expand high-quality early learning opportunities so every child in America can enter school ready to learn and succeed," said Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius, in a prepared statement. "In addition to higher test scores and graduation rates, the long-term results will be stronger families, safer communities, and a more competitive economy."
For more information, or to download an application, visit ed.gov.
About the Author
Joshua Bolkan is contributing editor for Campus Technology, THE Journal and STEAM Universe. He can be reached at [email protected].