Beginning in FY19, the Essential Programs and Services(EPS) funding formula added an allocation for PreK programs’ estimate student count. The PreK program estimate count allocation is intended to provide funding for PreK programming in advance of actual student enrollment, helping to offset the upfront costs associated with expanding or starting PreK programs. This PreK program allocation was first authorized into law on July 1, 2018 to begin in FY19.
If an SAU is opening or expanding a PreK program and the SAU would like to receive an FY20 estimate PreK allocation they must notify the Maine DOE’s finance team by completing the FY20 Estimate PreK Count Survey before October 31, 2018. SAUs completing this survey must also complete the PreK Program Application by April 30, 2019 and obtain program approval.
This FY20 Estimate PreK Count Survey is meant to capture the overall FY20 statewide obligation for estimate new and expanding PreK programs, but does not guarantee funding. This estimate count allocation will be used to provide funding on the FY20 ED279. SAUs must enroll the number of children included in the projected estimate count by October 1, 2019. After October 1, 2019 an audit adjustment, based on actual enrollment reported in NEO on October 1, 2019, will be made to the PreK allocation assigned on the FY20 ED279.
For more information please contact Deb Lajoie at 624-6613 or deborah.j.lajoie@maine.gov