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New Jersey has taken a significant step forward in early childhood education with the recent signing of three landmark bills by Governor Phil Murphy on July 9. This legislation aims to ensure that every child in the state has access to free, high-quality preschool and full-day kindergarten, a move that has garnered widespread support from parents, educators, and advocates.
At the core of this initiative is Bill S3910/A5717, which establishes a reliable funding formula for preschool programs across the state. This law will enable the New Jersey Department of Education to provide annual grants to school districts, facilitating the launch and expansion of preschool offerings for three- and four-year-olds, particularly in areas previously lacking such resources. The new funding formula replaces outdated methods with projections based on full-time enrollment, thereby aligning financial support more closely with actual student needs.
Governor Murphy highlighted the progress his administration has made in early education, noting that funding for public preschool has surged by nearly $600 million over the past seven years. Currently, over $1.2 billion supports preschool programs in New Jersey, with 229 districts having joined the state-funded preschool system since his tenure began. As a result, more than half of the state’s elementary-serving school districts now offer free, high-quality preschool.
In addition to expanding preschool access, the legislation also commits to providing free, full-day kindergarten statewide by the 2029-2030 academic year. Districts without existing full-day programs will be required to establish them or collaborate with neighboring districts to ensure comprehensive coverage.
While the legislation lays a strong foundation for early education, state analysts have noted that effective implementation will require careful planning and resource allocation. A fiscal report from the Office of Legislative Services indicates that some cost increases may arise, particularly for districts developing new programs. However, many costs are expected to be incremental, aligning with existing budget practices.
To further support this initiative, two additional bills have been signed into law to streamline preschool service contracts and update budget language in accordance with the new funding formula. These measures will help simplify the process for boards of education and enhance the overall efficiency of preschool program implementation.
This legislative package represents a pivotal moment for New Jersey families, as the state seeks to improve educational outcomes, alleviate the financial burden on working parents, and foster a more equitable future for its youngest residents.
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