This bill proposes the establishment of a new program, the quality early childhood education supplemental assistance grant program, within the Department of Education to provide early childhood learning services specifically for children from low-income families. It outlines eligibility criteria for providers, which include being a recipient of federal grant funds for comprehensive child development services or a school district receiving federal funds for preschool programs. The bill mandates the Department to award need-based grants starting in the 2026-2027 school year, prioritizing providers serving low-income children, and requires that these grants supplement existing funding rather than replace it.

Additionally, the bill sets forth comprehensive policies and procedures that participating providers must follow to ensure high-quality early childhood education. These include requirements for staffing, curriculum, developmental screenings, parental involvement, and health and safety practices. The bill also appropriates $175 million from the state general fund for the program in fiscal year 2026-2027, with the intention that this funding be ongoing. Overall, the bill aims to enhance early childhood education access and quality for disadvantaged children in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-249.20