The Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL) is pleased to offer two types of facility development funds to expand access to the Seattle Preschool Program (SPP):
- Pre-Development Services Program
- Provider Facilities Fund
SPP Pre-Development Services Program
Pre-Development Services are available on a rolling basis to provide consultative services prior to expanding or improving your preschool facilities.
How can this support my work?
If you are considering an expansion or development project, this program will match you with a local architecture firm with experience in child care facility design. The firm assigned to you will provide DEEL- approved services related to planning for SPP facilities development projects. Projects that have been approved in the past include:
- Assessing the feasibility of facility expansion ideas
- Developing design options that fit your needs
- Developing initial drawings and cost estimates to get your project ready for construction
- Providing expert advice and partnership in the planning stages of SPP-related construction work you are considering
Who is eligible to apply?
Family child care, center, and school-based providers who contract with DEEL as providers of SPP or SPP Pathway.
How do I apply and receive services?
To apply, contact Jenny Choi Jenny.Choi@seattle.gov to discuss your pre-development needs. You will then be asked to fill out a short online application at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PreDevServices
Within two weeks, DEEL will make a decision on your application. If approved, DEEL will work with you and the architectural firm to develop a scope of work. DEEL will then execute a contract with the firm to do the work. You will receive a copy of any plans or assessments completed by the firm.
Who is providing the services?
Three highly qualified firms, listed below, have been pre-screened by DEEL and will provide services for this program. All firms have experience in childcare facility design and working with non-profit organizations.
- CAST Architecture – http://www.castarchitecture.com/
- Environmental Works – http://eworks.org/
- ARC Architects – http://arcarchitects.com/
SPP Provider Facilities Fund – 2019
The Provider Facilities Fund supports preschool facility expansion and renovation projects for SPP or Pathway providers.
How can this support my work?
This fund is meant to support renovation and construction projects that will be used in SPP. Eligible activities include:
- Construction, renovation, or rehabilitation of child care facilities; including instructional space, kitchens, bathrooms, or storage needed to support the instructional space.
- Design, construction, renovation, or rehabilitation of outdoor play space in accordance with state licensing regulations.
- “Soft costs” or any project costs that is not construction (which may include design, project management, and permitting costs) directly related to the development of space eligible for use as a SPP classroom.
- Improvements that provide accessibility to persons with disabilities.
Who is eligible to apply?
Any agency under contract to provide preschool services for the Seattle Preschool Program (SPP) or the Pathway Program. Funds are awarded through a competitive application process. There are different funding limits for family child care, center, and school-based sites.
What will I be asked to include in the application?
Applications for funds need to demonstrate that the project is feasible and can be completed within a reasonable timeframe. Also, for the next 7 years, DEEL is focused on creating additional space for SPP where it is needed. You will be asked to show how the location you propose is a good strategic fit for SPP expansion.
Agencies accessing funds may be required to commit improved space to SPP for up to 10 years. The length of commitment will range depending on the funding request. Requests above $250,000 require a funding match and additional commitments from the providers.
How do I learn more and apply for funds?
DEEL anticipates that the Request for Investment (RFI) for the SPP Provider Facilities Fund will be released in June 2019. All updated information will be posted here: http://www.seattle.gov/education/about-us/funding-opportunities
If your application is approved, DEEL will negotiate a contract with your agency that outlines the requirements stated in the RFI as well as a timeline and milestones for distributing funds.
Who do I contact with questions?
Please contact Jenny Choi at Jenny.Choi@seattle.gov
