This bill aims to enhance access to school readiness programs for economically disadvantaged households by amending several sections of Florida Statutes. Key changes include redefining "economically disadvantaged" to mean families with incomes not exceeding 65 percent of the state median income, replacing the previous threshold of 150 percent of the federal poverty level. The bill also introduces a "single point of entry" system that allows parents to enroll their children in school readiness programs through various methods, including online and by phone, while utilizing a uniform waiting list based on family income and established priorities. Additionally, the duties of the Department of Education and early learning coalitions are revised to improve coordination and accountability in early learning programs.

Further amendments specify the criteria for prioritizing children in the school readiness program, emphasizing those from working families with household incomes at or below 55 percent of the state median income. The bill mandates that early learning coalitions establish uniform waiting lists and outlines the requirements for school readiness program plans, including data collection on program effectiveness. Funding allocation for the school readiness program will also be adjusted to reflect historical trends and population changes in each county. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1382 Filed: 1002.82, 1002.84, 1002.87, 1002.89
S 1382 c1: 1002.82, 1002.84, 1002.87, 1002.89