As another school year draws to a close, we wanted to take a
moment to highlight one of the key programs that DEL administers for our
state’s littlest learners. We’ve posted about ECEAP often on this blog and in
social media, but those of you who are new to the early learning system in
Washington may be scratching you heads at this funky acronym and wondering
“what does ECEAP do for children?”
The Early Childhood Education and Assistance
Program (ECEAP) is Washington’s pre-kindergarten program that prepares 3-
and 4-year-old children for success in school and in life. Children ages 3 and
4 are eligible for ECEAP if their family income is at or below 110 percent of
the federal poverty level or if they are experiencing specific risk factors.
For a family of 4, that’s $26.730 a year or less.
Since 1985, ECEAP has focused on the well-being of the whole
child by providing comprehensive nutrition, health, education and family
support services to Washington’s most at-risk young children. ECEAP currently
serves more than 11,500 children in 351 locations in Washington State.
ECEAP and Academic Benefits
- A 2014 evaluation by the Washington State Institute for Public Policy (WSIPP) found that children who participated in ECEAP had significantly higher math and reading test scores in the third, fourth, and fifth grades than similar children who did not participate.
- Children who participated in the 2015-16 school year showed significant progress in social-emotional, physical, language, and cognitive development and early literacy and math skills.
ECEAP – Beyond the Classroom
ECEAP’s comprehensive approach goes far beyond the children’s
classroom. Parents receive support through the program as well. ECEAP “truly
helps future kindergarteners and parents” says Maria, an ECEAP parent. Parents
have opportunities to develop leadership skills and work towards their personal
goals with the help of program staff. ECEAP staff also assist families with the
transition to Kindergarten.
Nicole, whose son attends the Kennewick School District
ECEAP program, describes his tremendous progress since attending ECEAP. “The
school and teachers worked hard to accommodate our family’s specific needs,”
she explains. Another parent adds that “ECEAP made it possible for our daughter
to catch up to the level she should be at.”
Enrolling in ECEAP
Enrollment for ECEAP services happens at the local level.
Each ECEAP program is unique and tailored to the community needs. Interested
families are encouraged to contact an ECEAP
program to learn more and apply for admission.
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