What do School Readiness services include?

School Readiness services include before and after-care, extended-year, and/or school age care for children to support parents in becoming financially self-sufficient.

What income is used to determine eligibility?

A family’s gross income (income before taxes, insurance, and any other deductions are subtracted) is used to determine eligibility. Both earned income (for example, wages) and unearned income (for example, child support, Social Security payments, Unemployment Insurance) are counted. Depending on the family income, the family will pay a fee for each child for whom you receive financial assistance. The co-payment is based on family income and family size. Parents are expected to make their co-payment directly to the child care provider.

Can I choose any school/ child care center I’d like?

All families eligible for School Readiness financial assistance may select the provider of their choice. However, ELCPBC will only pay for child care if the child care provider has been approved by the Coalition. To find out if School Readiness is a fit for your family, please contact our Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) at 561-514-3300. 

Where can I find the eligibility priorities?

Eligibility priorities can be found here: https://www.elcpalmbeach.org/school-readiness-program-eligibility-priorities

Where am I on the waitlist? How can I check that status?

Funding for School Readiness services is limited. Upon applying, families may be placed on a waitlist. Families may be placed on the School Readiness (SR) Waiting List as follows:

·         Supporting documentation will be required to determine placement on the waiting list

·         You will be notified if additional information is needed prior to placing your child (ren) on the waiting list.

·         You are required to update your application on line if changes occur.

·         You will be contacted every 6 months to remain on the waiting list; failure to respond will result in the termination of waiting list status.

·         Families may contact the Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) team directly at 561.514.3300 to request a listing of providers that may offer scholarships, negotiated rates, or a sliding scale fee.

When funds become available you will receive further communication from us to determine if you are eligible. Invitations are sent based on the established priorities and the date your child (ren) was placed on the waiting list.

If you’d like to check the status of a Wait List Application, call us at 561.514.3300.

What is a Developmental Screening?

From birth to 5 years old, a child should reach milestones in how he/she plays, learns, speaks, acts and moves. A developmental screening is a brief and simple process (sometimes a short test or questionnaire that you complete), that takes a closer look at how your child is developing and can tell if he or she is learning basic skills or if there are delays. More information on screenings can be found here: https://www.elcpalmbeach.org/school-readiness-program-screening