State grant - B preschool (619)

The Department of Education Arkansas received a $5.9 million formula grant award from the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services under the Special Education Preschool Grants program (CFDA 84.173), effective July 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. This funding supports comprehensive special education services for children with disabilities ages 3 through 5 years in Arkansas, ensuring these children receive free appropriate public education (FAPE) as required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

The grant funds specialized instruction, therapeutic services, and individualized support designed to prepare young children with disabilities for successful transitions into kindergarten and future academic environments. Key services include specialized instruction, speech and language therapy, occupational and physical therapy, assistive technology, and individualized support services. The Arkansas Department of Education, functioning as the state education agency, distributes sub-awards from this allocation to eligible local educational agencies, charter schools, and regional educational organizations throughout the state to deliver direct services to eligible preschool-age children with disabilities.