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Polk County Schools approves $803,117 Head Start continuation grant application
Summary
Board approved submission of a Head Start continuation grant with a total budget of $803,117; district must provide a $200,780 non‑federal share. The grant includes restricted funds for training and plans for playground work at three sites.
Polk County Schools voted Feb. 10 to approve submission of a Head Start continuation grant application covering Year 1 of the 2025–2030 grant period, with a total budget of $803,117.
Kathy Hardy presented the application and budget, noting $12,827 of the total is restricted for training and technical assistance and that Polk County Schools must provide a $200,780 non‑federal share. "Part of the application... you did receive the budget, which is a total of $803,117," Hardy said. She told trustees that a significant portion of funds will cover salaries and benefits and that the district expects low turnover in preschool staff because it pays according to the state salary scale.
Hardy described program goals and continuous self-assessment work, including a plan for substitute teacher training for preschool and a supplemental grant to replace three playgrounds—Sunnyview, Saluda and Polk Central. She said the application is not due until April 1 but that staff prefer to submit early to receive feedback prior to the deadline.
A motion to approve the continuation grant and its amendments was made, seconded and approved by voice vote, recorded as 'Motion carries 7 0.' The board did not discuss alternative funding sources at length in the public portion of the meeting; Hardy indicated the district expects to meet the non‑federal share using NC Pre‑K funds.
Next steps described at the meeting: staff will submit the application to the Office of Head Start and follow up as needed on any feedback.
