This bill modifies the statewide preschool program in Iowa by expanding eligibility to include not only four-year-old children but also five-year-old children who reach the age of five between March 15 and September 15 of the school year. The language throughout the bill has been updated to replace references to "four-year-old" children with "young" children, thereby broadening the scope of the program. Additionally, it stipulates that if a child has previously been counted for state funding purposes in a prior school year, they will not be counted again for funding in subsequent years.

The bill also clarifies the requirements for enrollment and compulsory attendance, ensuring that children who meet the new age criteria are considered of compulsory attendance age. It includes provisions for school districts to enroll children who do not meet the age requirements if space and funding allow, although these children will not be counted for state funding purposes. The changes will take effect for school budget years beginning on or after July 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256C.1, 256C.3, 256C.4, 298A.2, 299.1A