AK HB36

Establishes prekindergarten programs for four-year-old children in school districts as optional programs supervised by the Department of Education and consistent with state regulations.

Students enrolled in district prekindergarten programs count as not more than half-time students in average daily membership calculations for funding purposes.

Requires the Department of Education to develop a statewide early childhood education plan incorporating a model curriculum and coordinating with existing programs such as Head Start.

Changes terminology from "pre-elementary" to "prekindergarten" in statute and allows four-year-old children under school age to enter public school prekindergarten programs.

Directs the Department of Education to submit a report on the early childhood education plan to the legislature by January 15, 2016; takes effect July 1, 2015.