Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) has introduced legislation which would enable all school districts in the state to participate in the statewide universal full day pre-kindergarten program for four year old children.  Currently, many districts outside New York City are not able to participate in the pre-k program because they have to compete with other districts for limited funds.

“Evidence suggests that children who participate in pre-k are better prepared for school,” Gallivan said.  “School districts that apply for funding and meet requirements should receive the necessary resources to provide full-day pre-k for their students.” 

The legislation would amend state education law and remove the competitive elements of the program so that any district with a qualifying pre-k program would receive funding.  In the 2015-16 school years, 82-percent of four-year-olds outside of New York City did not have full fay kindergarten because they did not receive adequate funding.

The legislation has been sent to the Senate’s Education Committee for review.   

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