TRENTON – Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz introduced legislation committing to expanding access to high-quality preschool education for three- and four-year-olds so all children and families can benefit from the proven academic and developmental advantages of early childhood education.

“The social, academic, and economic return on investment from preschool is substantial. For every dollar invested in these programs, we see a return of $11. New Jersey has recognized this impact and, over the past 7 years, has made significant investments in strengthening our infrastructure and increasing access to preschool seats,” said Majority Leader Ruiz (D-Essex/Hudson). “The pandemic highlighted the urgent need for further support for our preschool system, emphasizing its crucial role in helping working families and securing children’s academic success. This bill seeks to responsibly build on our current infrastructure, expand the framework, and prioritize support for the students who will benefit the most. Investing in early childhood education strengthens the financial security of our families, particularly helping parents — especially women — participate in the workforce, and helps every child start their educational journey on a solid foundation.”

The bill, S-3910, updates the formula for school districts to receive preschool education aid by assessing all school districts equally and mandates that each school district submit a plan to provide free access to full-day preschool to the Commissioner of Education by July 1, 2025. For districts that do not currently offer full-day kindergarten, their plan must outline steps for the implementation of full-day kindergarten in conjunction with their preschool expansion plan.

Preschool expansion aid would be available to districts that offer full-day kindergarten and need assistance in expanding program access. Preference would be given to districts with students who would receive the greatest benefits from preschool programs. Recipients of preschool expansion aid would be required to implement a mixed delivery method, utilizing a blend of district programs, licensed childcare provider programs, and Head Start Programs to deliver preschool education.