Smart Start is a grant program that provides funding to establish or expand a preschool program in the public schools.
What are Smart Start funds used for?
Smart Start funds are used to increase the number of preschool spots available in public schools. The funds support the operational costs of preschool classrooms.
Between 2015 and 2017 districts that demonstrated a need for more preschool spaces in their community were able to apply for funding to make needed capital improvements to add preschool spaces. Funding to operate a Smart Start Preschool Program and increase the number of preschool spots available in public schools has been awarded to successful applicants since 2015.
How much funding do Smart Start Grantees receive?
Public Schools may receive no more than $5,000 per student for the school year. There is a limit of $75,000 per classroom for annual operating expenses.
Communities Receiving Smart Start Funds
The following communities applied and were approved for the following funding amounts for July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2025.
Community | Funding |
---|---|
Andover | $65,000 |
Ansonia | $75,000 |
Bridgeport | $300,000 |
Cheshire | $150,000 |
Clinton | $150,000 |
Coventry | $225,000 |
Cromwell | $150,000 |
Derby | $150,000 |
East Hampton | $75,000 |
East Hartford | $150,000 |
East Haven | $150,000 |
Enfield | $185,000 |
Killingly | $75,000 |
New London | $75,000 |
North Branford | $75,000 |
Norwich | $75,000 |
Plainville | $75,000 |
Plymouth | $75,000 |
Somers | $75,000 |
Thomaston | $75,000 |
Wallingford | $300,000 |
West Hartford | $225,000 |
Windsor | $300,000 |
TOTAL: | $3,250,000 |