Starting Strong Rapid City Scholarship Program

Starting Strong is a scholarship program that helps low-income families afford preschool in Rapid City, South Dakota. The program provides scholarships for three- and four-year-olds to access high-quality preschool education.

Geographic Scope: Rapid City, South Dakota

Focus Areas:

• Preschool scholarships for low-income families
• Access to high-quality early childhood education
• Research-based curricula using SD Early Learning Guidelines

Eligibility:

• Children from families at or below 325 percent of the Federal Poverty Level
• Child must reside in Rapid City
• Ages 3-4 years old

Selection Criteria: Children will be chosen based on a number of factors, including financial need.

What is Funded:

• Preschool tuition costs
• Access to participating Starting Strong preschools:
  • Banana Bunch YMCA
  • Open Bible - Dream Kids
  • St. Elizabeth Seton School
  • Kyra's Kiddos
  • Every Child is Special
  • Lil' Friends Learning Center
  • Children's House Montessori

What is NOT Funded:

• Additional childcare costs beyond preschool
• Year-round daycare (program is year-round preschool only)

Program Requirements:

• Parents must agree to Expectations for Parents document
• Classrooms feature safe and healthy environments with appropriate equipment and materials
• Programs support social and emotional development to prepare for school

Contact Information:

• Early Childhood Connections
• 3645 Sturgis Rd, Suite 110, Rapid City, SD 57702
• Phone: 605-342-6464
• Hours: Mon–Thurs 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Friday 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
• Email available on website

How to Apply

Application Methods:

1. Apply online (see application URL below)
2. Call and request paper application: 605-342-6464 (application will be mailed to you)
3. Apply in person: Visit Early Childhood Connections office at 3645 Sturgis Road, Suite 110, Rapid City

Required Information:
The application assesses financial need and determines eligibility based on family income at or below 325% of Federal Poverty Level.

Process:

1. Complete application
2. Submit online or by mail/in-person
3. ECC will review and contact qualified families
4. Selected families will be notified
5. Parents must agree to "Expectations for Parents" document
6. Parents choose from participating preschool providers

Assistance Available:

• Staff can help complete the application
• Call 605-342-6464 for application assistance
• Contact staff at office for in-person support