The proposed bill aims to establish the "Kindergarten Readiness Touchpad Pilot Program" in West Virginia, which will provide preloaded early-learning touchpads to eligible preschool-aged children to enhance their readiness for kindergarten. The program is designed to address the disparities in access to quality early learning resources, particularly for children from low-income families or those facing other risk factors. The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) will administer the program, collaborating with various state departments and community partners to ensure effective implementation and support for families.

The bill outlines the criteria for eligibility, which includes children aged three or four who meet specific income or program enrollment requirements. It also details the components of the touchpad kits, which will include child-friendly devices, educational content, and resources for parents. Additionally, the program will adhere to data privacy laws and will be evaluated annually to assess its impact on kindergarten readiness indicators. A special revenue account will be created to fund the program, ensuring that expenditures are managed separately from the state's General Revenue Fund.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-2A-11