The bill establishes funding for the transition to kindergarten program, which is set to begin in the 2024-25 school year. It appropriates $16,216,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, and $4,709,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, from the state general fund to the office of the superintendent of public instruction. This funding is designated for allocation to school districts, charter schools, and state-tribal education compact schools that operate the program. The bill also renames the existing transitional kindergarten program to the transition to kindergarten program, emphasizing its goal of assisting eligible children who require additional preparation for success in kindergarten.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for the administration of the transition to kindergarten program, including eligibility criteria, enrollment policies, and the prohibition of tuition fees for state-funded eligible children. It mandates that the program prioritize families with low incomes and children in need of additional support. The bill also includes provisions for data reporting, assessments, and the development of best practices for program implementation. Notably, it states that beginning with the 2025-26 school year, the average enrollment of eligible children in the program cannot exceed the enrollment levels from the 2024-25 school year.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.300.072