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In a promising move, twenty-six school districts across New Jersey are set to receive a substantial financial boost, nearly $25 million by January, to kickstart or enhance their all-day preschool programs. This development, announced by state officials, represents a significant step towards achieving a vital educational goal. The Murphy administration is pushing to provide full-day preschool opportunities for 3- and 4-year-olds statewide and sees this investment as a powerful means to ensure every child's early success.
Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way, who was temporarily leading the state while Governor Phil Murphy embarked on a 9-day trade mission in East Asia, emphasized the unparalleled importance of this endeavor. She declared, "There is no single greater investment that we can make than to help every single child get a head start in their life."
The $25 million funding injection is expected to open up over 1,700 preschool seats, generate employment opportunities, and help to relieve the financial burden on families in need of childcare services. It is part of a larger budget allocation of nearly $110 million planned by Governor Murphy for education. The state has invested more than $1.1 billion for universal preschool access to date.
In a significant policy shift, this year all school districts had the opportunity to apply for funding. Successful applicants had to demonstrate their ability to provide comprehensive full-day preschool programs, complete with certified teachers, aides, and inclusive classrooms for children with special needs.
Angelica Allen-McMillan, the acting commissioner of the state Department of Education, highlighted the role of quality early education. She said, "Quality early education plays a pivotal role in shaping the academic and personal development of our youngest learners," adding that it lays a sturdy foundation for cognitive, social, and emotional growth.