AK HB153

Renames "pre-elementary programs" to "early education programs" and allows school districts to operate these programs for children ages four and five who have not attended kindergarten.

Department of Education shall approve early education programs meeting board-adopted standards and provide training and assistance to districts developing these programs.

Authorizes department to award three-year grants to eligible districts (ranked by performance starting with lowest-performing 20% in fiscal year 2019-2020, progressing to highest-performing 20% by 2023) for district-wide early education program development.

Students in approved early education programs count as one-half full-time equivalent students for funding purposes under specified circumstances; programs cannot be included in average daily membership until department approval.

Section 14.03.135 (early education grant program) repeals July 1, 2029; lead teachers must hold valid teacher certificate and complete minimum six credit hours in early childhood education.