Cedar/Jones ECI offers preschool scholarships

     Cedar/Jones Early Childhood Iowa (ECI) has released their preschool scholarships for the upcoming 2023-24 school year.

   State tax dollars are allocated to Cedar and Jones counties through Cedar/Jones ECI to help support children and their families when they choose high quality early education for their child. Scholarships allow for access to financial assistance to help offset costs associated with preschool education.

   To apply, contact ECI Director and Preschool Scholarship Manager Sherri Hunt at 319-551-3402 or sherri.hunt@jonescountyiowa.gov. Aside from the application, you must also send in a most recent copy of the first two pages pf the Federal Income Tax Return for all individuals supporting the household.

   Eligibility:

   • Your child will be 3, 4, or 5 years of age as of Sept. 15, 2023.

   • Your child lives in Cedar or Jones counties, or within the boundaries of Anamosa, Bennett, Durant, Midland, Monticello, North Cedar, Olin, Tipton, and West Branch school districts.

   • Children living outside of Cedar and Jones counties must first apply for a preschool scholarship from the county of residence before determination will be made.

   • Your child attends or will attend a high-quality participating preschool.

   • Your family meets income guidelines. This is gross annual income and includes salary/wages/stipends, unemployment benefits, SSI, FIP, Social Security, Child Support, Veterans benefits, and direct student loans.

   • Your child is in foster care warranted through the Iowa Department of Human Services.

   • You agree to a completed Ages and Stages Screenings on your child.