State grant - B preschool (619)

The Minnesota Department of Education received a Formula Grant award of $8.18M from the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) under the Special Education Preschool Grants program (CFDA 84.173), effective July 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. This grant provides comprehensive special education and related services to children with disabilities ages 3 through 5 years in Minnesota. The funded services include specialized instruction, speech and language therapy, occupational and physical therapy, assistive technology, and individualized support designed to prepare young children with disabilities for successful transitions into kindergarten and future academic environments.

As the state education agency, MDE distributes the grant funds through sub-awards to local school districts, charter schools, intermediate educational units, and other regional educational organizations throughout Minnesota. The state first sets aside funds for administrative and state-level activities before issuing subgrants to eligible local educational agencies. MDE's administration of these funds ensures that all eligible children with disabilities residing in Minnesota receive free appropriate public education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).