CT SB00424

Defines "preschool-aged child" as children ages 3-5 in out-of-home care under Department of Children and Families (DCF) commitment orders who are not enrolled in preschool or kindergarten.

Establishes eligible preschool programs to include school readiness programs, local/regional board of education preschools, NAEYC-accredited programs, Head Start, and other programs deemed suitable by the commissioner.

Requires the DCF Commissioner, in consultation with the Office of Early Childhood, to adopt policies and procedures by January 1, 2015 to maximize enrollment of eligible preschool-aged children in eligible programs.

Mandates a comprehensive report to relevant legislative committees by January 1, 2015 detailing enrollment rates, availability of preschool spaces by geography and type, special education needs, transportation options, and cost analyses.

Requires the report to include a plan providing priority access to state and federally-funded preschool programs for eligible preschool-aged children in DCF care.