Description
The FY27 Shared Visions Preschool Program is a competitive state grant administered by the Iowa Department of Education/Child Development Coordinating Council to fund comprehensive, classroom‑based preschool services for at‑risk children ages 3‑5. Grantees must operate under a 1‑staff‑to‑8‑children ratio, use the Teaching Strategies GOLD® assessment system, and meet one of three state‑approved program standards (NAEYC, Iowa Quality Preschool, or Head Start). Funding covers direct service costs, staff salaries, supplies, equipment (≤ $4,999 per item), travel/training (≤ 5 % of budget), and requires at‑least 20 % in‑kind support. Contracts are awarded for one year with up to five annual renewals, contingent on legislative appropriations, and require extensive reporting, mid‑year and year‑end budgets, and annual program evaluation.
• Provide classroom‑based preschool instruction meeting the 1:8 staff‑child ratio and max class size of 16‑20 children.
• Implement the GOLD® assessment at three checkpoints per child and submit statewide data via the USI system.
• Deliver family‑partnership services, health‑promotion activities, transportation planning, and maintain compliance with Iowa Administrative Code 281‑64.
• Manage a detailed budget (admin ≤ 10 % of total) and document ≥ 20 % in‑kind contributions.
• Submit annual reports, renewal applications, and comply with audit requirements.