This bill amends Iowa's Code chapter 256C to enable community-based providers to directly participate in the statewide preschool program for four-year-old children, which was previously restricted to school districts. It introduces new definitions and requirements for these providers, including the necessity for approval from the Department of Education to participate. The legislation outlines that community-based providers must adhere to specific standards and engage in data collection and performance measurement processes. Key amendments include the insertion of language that recognizes community-based providers as approved local programs and establishes funding guidelines for them, ensuring that preschool foundation aid is allocated based on enrollment in either school district or community-based provider programs.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the funding structure for the preschool program, allowing approved community-based providers to receive preschool foundation aid directly, rather than relying on school districts to pass funding through. It specifies the amount of aid these providers will receive during their initial year of participation and in subsequent years, aiming to enhance financial support for community-based providers. The legislation also includes necessary conforming changes to align with these new provisions, ultimately seeking to expand access to high-quality preschool education by integrating community-based providers into the delivery of preschool services.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256C.1, 256C.3, 257.16, 256C.4, 256C.5