Front Range Community College child care support offers vital support to student-parents through the Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) program. This federal initiative assists low-income students by subsidizing child care costs, enabling them to focus on their academic goals. By partnering with local providers like Sunset Academy, FRCC ensures that student-parents have access to affordable, high-quality child care services.
Understanding the CCAMPIS Program
The CCAMPIS program, authorized by the Higher Education Act and administered by the U.S. Department of Education, provides grants to institutions of higher education to support or establish campus-based child care services primarily for the benefit of low-income students. At FRCC, this program plays a crucial role in supporting student-parents.
Eligibility for Child Care Support at FRCC
To qualify for child care support through CCAMPIS at FRCC, student-parents must meet the following criteria:
- Pell Grant Eligibility: Demonstrate financial need by qualifying for a federal Pell Grant.
- Enrollment Status: Be enrolled part-time or full-time in a degree or certificate program at FRCC.
- Academic Standing: Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 to demonstrate satisfactory academic progress.
- Parenting Responsibility: Have dependent children requiring child care services.
These requirements ensure that the program supports those who are balancing educational pursuits with parenting responsibilities.
Sunset Academy: A Trusted Partner in Child Care
Sunset Academy, located in Longmont, Colorado, is a licensed child care center that partners with FRCC to provide services under the CCAMPIS program. The academy offers a nurturing environment for children aged six weeks to 12 years, with programs designed to support early childhood development. Its proximity to FRCC’s Boulder County Campus makes it a convenient option for student-parents.
Benefits of the Program
The child care support provided through CCAMPIS at FRCC offers several benefits:
- Financial Relief: By subsidizing up to 80% of child care costs, the program alleviates financial burdens, allowing student-parents to allocate resources toward tuition, books, and living expenses.
- Increased Retention and Graduation Rates: Access to affordable child care is linked to higher retention and graduation rates among student-parents, enabling them to focus on their studies.
- Quality Child Care: Providers like Sunset Academy meet high standards, ensuring children receive safe and enriching care.
- Flexibility for Parents: With extended hours and care during school breaks, Sunset Academy supports the unique scheduling needs of student-parents.
How to Apply for Front Range Community College Child Care Support
Applying for child care support through CCAMPIS at FRCC involves the following steps:
- Complete the Online Application: Access the CCAMPIS application on the FRCC website.
- Provide Required Documentation: Submit proof of Pell Grant eligibility and enrollment in an FRCC program.
- Submit Information About Child Care Needs: Detail the number of children requiring care and preferred child care providers.
Applications are reviewed by the CCAMPIS Advisory Committee at the beginning of each semester. Funding is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, and a waitlist is maintained for those who do not receive immediate assistance.
Making Education Accessible for Student-Parents
FRCC’s child care support through the CCAMPIS program plays a vital role in creating an inclusive and supportive environment for student-parents. By partnering with high-quality providers like Sunset Academy, FRCC ensures that parents can pursue higher education without compromising on the care and development of their children.
The broader impact of this initiative is transformative. By helping student-parents achieve their academic goals, the program not only benefits individual families but also strengthens communities and promotes economic stability.
In conclusion, FRCC’s child care support through the CCAMPIS program is more than just a subsidy; it is a lifeline for student-parents striving for a brighter future. Through this initiative, FRCC and providers like Sunset Academy are making higher education accessible and achievable for families in need.