ECEAP (Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program) is Washington's preschool program for low-income 3- and 4-year-old children and their families. To promote school success, ECEAP provides preschool education, family support, and health and nutrition services.
ECEAP is regulated by state law (RCW), state rules (WAC), performance standards and policy memoranda.
ECEAP Performance Standards
The Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) performance standards are the criteria for comprehensive service delivery of ECEAP. Contractors must comply with the performance standards as part of their contract with the Department of Early Learning's ECEAP office.
The ECEAP performance standards explain the minimum legal, administrative, and performance requirements for program compliance. They serve as the basis for ECEAP program review and monitoring. Contractors are encouraged to establish “best practices” above these minimum requirements to address the goals of ECEAP:
- To provide a comprehensive pre-kindergarten program to foster the development of the whole child and enhance opportunities for success in school and life.
- To support parents as the child's first and most important teacher and provider of safety, loving care, and stability.
These standards are the work of many dedicated ECEAP program administrators, staff, and parents who shared their vision and expertise.
For more information, view the ECEAP Performance Standards [419K]