This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 124D.19, subdivision 11, to authorize school-age care programs to extend their services to certain eligible prekindergarten students. The new legal language specifies that "eligible children" includes those not yet enrolled in kindergarten who are classified as children with disabilities, those facing temporary family-related issues, and children currently enrolled in kindergarten through grade 6. Additionally, the bill allows school boards to permit insured community groups or for-profit entities to utilize school facilities for these programs if the school board opts not to offer them directly.

The bill outlines the requirements for school-age care programs, which must include adult supervision, parental involvement, partnerships with educational and community entities, and opportunities for secondary school students to engage in community service. It also allows school districts to charge a sliding fee based on family income and encourages coordination with various educational and youth service programs. Furthermore, the bill mandates that districts maintain a separate account for funds related to the school-age care program and prohibits the commissioner of education from adopting rules for these programs.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 124D.19