RFP – Blended Pre-Kindergarten Classroom Program Cohort 5 Grant

The Mississippi Department of Education is offering a competitive grant to public school districts (and eligible charter schools) to establish inclusive, blended pre‑kindergarten classrooms using a co‑teaching model and the state‑adopted Mississippi Beginnings curriculum. Recipients must provide high‑quality instruction for both typically developing children and those with disabilities, meet specific class‑size and ratio requirements, deliver mandated professional development, and participate in state‑wide assessment and research activities. Funding is up to $50,000 for the first year with additional $10,000 increments in subsequent years, subject to performance and fund availability. • Implement inclusive pre‑K classrooms (≤ 20 four‑year‑olds or ≤ 14 three‑year‑olds per class) with a 40 % target of students with disabilities. • Use a co‑teaching instructional model and the Mississippi Beginnings curriculum; participate in a quasi‑experimental study. • Provide ≥ 15 hours of annual professional development, facilitate PLCs, and engage parents, especially hard‑to‑reach families. • Submit detailed program plans, budgets, and compliance documentation; adhere to reporting, audit, and monitoring requirements. • Deliver state assessments (MKAS2, Brigance) and maintain compliance with IDEA, Section 504, and ADA.