Common Contracts

Collaborative Community Agreements

April 20th, 1999

• Filed
  April 20th, 1999

Numerous early childhood program options generally exist for families who want their children to participate in community programs. However, one factor that may limit the options families choose for their child is cost. Cost can also be a factor families of children with disabilities consider when reviewing placement options. It is important for programs to assure a variety of community options are available so that every family, regardless of income, has an opportunity to choose a setting ap- propriate for their child. In Kansas, because state education dollars cannot be spent for tuition or expenses in community (non public education) preschools or child care agencies many families have felt a financial barrier to community programs. Enroll- ing eligible children in public school programs is free. Thus financing community options becomes a critical component of inclusive preschool programs.