Early Childhood: Critical Beginnings
Accomplishments
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Last year's $146 million increase in funding for universal PreK increased enrollment by 50% for a total of 93,000 children. Programs also grew by 50%; there are now 397 programs statewide.
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Regents authorized mid-year start up resulting in 6 new programs and 14 expanded programs in January 2008.
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SED worked with other State agencies to encourage school districts to start programs; worked with districts to streamline the process and ensure greater participation.
Build on this Success in 2008-09
Support Executive's Proposals
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Increase of $79 million
- Incentives for schools to implement full-day kindergarten programs
Support Regents Proposals
- Flexibility in PreK aid to support full-day programs
- Aid for transportation costs for PreK students
- Require full-day kindergarten: Acquiring academic skills and knowledge by age 6 correlates with later academic success
- Lower the compulsory school age from 6 to 5
Support Recommendations
- Temporary Task Force on Preschool Special Education
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Counties Offering PreK Programs in All School Districts |
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Allegany |
Oswego |
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Chemung |
Rockland |
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Montgomery |
Schuyler |
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Orleans |
Yates |