The bill modifies the enrollment provisions for eligible children in Iowa's statewide preschool program by adding a new requirement for local programs. Specifically, it mandates that if there is a waiting list for enrollment, local programs must prioritize eligible children who qualify as homeless individuals according to the federal definition under 42 U.S.C. 11302(a) and (c). This addition aims to ensure that vulnerable populations have better access to preschool education.

In addition to this new priority requirement, the bill maintains existing provisions that the state board of education must adopt rules defining various criteria for local preschool programs. These criteria include teacher-to-child ratios, student learning standards, and integration provisions for children from other funded preschool programs. The inclusion of the new priority for homeless children reflects a commitment to addressing educational disparities among the most disadvantaged groups.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256C.3