(1) The Department of Early Learning and Care may make grants from the Early Childhood Equity Fund established under ORS § 417.781 to culturally specific early learning, early childhood and parent support programs in this state that build capacity in communities, ensure children start kindergarten ready to succeed and support families to be stable, healthy and attached. For purposes of this subsection, a program is in this state if the program serves communities within the geographic boundaries of this state, including communities within Indian country of a federally recognized Oregon Indian tribe that is within the geographic boundaries of this state.

Ask a legal question, get an answer ASAP!
Click here to chat with a lawyer about your rights.

(2) To receive a grant under this section, a program must:

(a) Provide outreach, support and resources to children and families who are at risk because of any combination of two or more factors, including their race, ethnicity, English language proficiency, socioeconomic status and geographic location; and

(b) Demonstrate a proven ability to provide outreach, support and resources to children and families described in paragraph (a) of this subsection.

(3) The department shall monitor capacity needs and provide technical assistance to grantees.

(4) The department shall conduct a biennial evaluation of programs that receive grants under this section. The evaluation shall include measurement of outcomes that align with:

(a) Current research regarding positive child and family indicators, including family stability and early childhood school readiness; and

(b) Culturally specific approaches.

(5) The Early Learning Council, in consultation with the department, shall adopt rules necessary to carry out the provisions of this section. The rules shall include requirements for grant eligibility under this section.

(6) On or before September 15 of each odd-numbered year, the department shall submit to the interim committees of the Legislative Assembly related to early childhood and child welfare a report on the status and impact of grants made to programs under this section. The report shall include changes in the capacity of culturally specific organizations and the results of any biennial evaluations conducted in accordance with subsection (4) of this section. [2019 c.122 § 54; 2021 c.631 § 49]

See note under 417.781.