This bill modifies the calculation of preschool education aid for certain school districts in New Jersey, specifically those first receiving aid in the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 school years. It introduces a new cost-sharing methodology for these districts, allowing them to raise their local tax levies without separate voter approval to cover the difference between total preschool costs and the state aid received. The bill also specifies that the aid for these districts will be calculated based on total program enrollment and costs, rather than the previous method that relied on a district aid percentage or a fixed percentage of eligible costs.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions that allow school districts first receiving preschool education aid in the 2027-2028 school year to participate in a pilot program established by the commissioner, which will also follow a similar cost-sharing approach. The legislation aims to streamline funding for preschool programs and ensure that districts can adequately support their preschool education initiatives without being constrained by the previous cost-sharing requirements. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the financial support for preschool education in New Jersey, particularly for districts newly entering the program.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:7F-38, 18A:7F-54