Grant Application

Locally-designed Program Option Considerations

This resource outlines critical information and data you’ll need to consider when planning and developing a locally-designed program option variation (LDO) waiver request.

Locally-designed program option variations, 45 CFR §1302.24(c)
Review the waiver requirements to operate an LDO that better meets the needs of your community or demonstrates an alternative approach to providing Head Start services.

An LDO waiver is processed through the Head Start Enterprise System (HSES) as a change in scope request. You can submit your change in scope request within a baseline or continuation application or as an Amendment: change in scope. It must be submitted at least 90 days before planned implementation.

Your change in scope application must include the following:

  • SF-424
  • SF-424A
  • Governing board and Policy Council approvals
  • Program narrative
  • Budget narrative
  • Proposed program schedule
  • Supporting documents

Note that multiple conversations with your program specialist may be needed during the planning, requesting, and implementation of the LDO.

Please address the following in your LDO waiver request:

  1. Identify all of the Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start programs, centers, and classrooms for which the waiver would apply.
  2. List which of the following requirements would be waived through the LDO:
    • Center-based ratios and group size — cannot be waived for children under 24 months
    • Center-based duration
    • Selection of home-based option as the only choice in a Head Start program
    • Home-based caseloads
    • Home-based duration
    • Family child care ratios and group size
    • Family child care duration
  3. Describe the rationale for your request.
  4. Indicate the number of slots to be served in the LDO.
  5. When waiving ratios and group sizes in center settings, specify how your facility’s square footage will meet applicable requirements.
  6. Outline the proposed timetable for implementation of the option.
  7. Confirm that changes described in the application are reflected in the program schedule tab in HSES.
  8. Explain how your program will measure progress to assure the LDO effectively supports development and progress in children’s early learning outcomes.
  9. If available, provide evidence that demonstrates the LDO variation is effective.
  10. If your request is to continue an existing LDO, provide data demonstrating appropriate development and progress in children’s early learning outcomes for the LDO options in comparison to the standard options. Indicate if there have been any barriers to maintaining full enrollment within the locally designed option.

Contact your program specialist for more information about LDO waiver considerations.