H.B. No. 358 aims to provide free full-day prekindergarten education for certain children in Texas. The bill amends existing provisions in the Education Code, specifically Sections 29.153 and 29.1531, to expand eligibility for prekindergarten classes. Notably, it removes the requirement that a district must identify 15 or more eligible children to offer prekindergarten classes, allowing any child who is at least four years old to enroll. Additionally, the bill clarifies that children who are at least three years old and meet specific criteria, such as being educationally disadvantaged or homeless, are also eligible for enrollment. The bill mandates that prekindergarten classes be operated on a full-day basis and prohibits districts from charging tuition for these classes.

Furthermore, the bill requires school districts to report detailed demographic information about students enrolled in prekindergarten classes, including the number of eligible students and the types of classes offered. It also specifies that the changes will take effect starting with the 2025-2026 school year, with provisions for immediate effect if passed by a two-thirds majority in both houses of the legislature. Overall, H.B. No. 358 seeks to enhance access to early childhood education for vulnerable populations in Texas.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 29.1531, Education Code 29.1532 (Education Code 29)