CT SB00176

Establishes the Connecticut Smart Start competitive grant program for fiscal years 2015-2024, administered by the Office of Early Childhood to provide grants to local and regional boards of education for preschool programs.

Allows boards of education to receive capital grants up to $75,000 per classroom for renovation costs and annual operating grants of up to $5,000 per child served or $75,000 per classroom, with a maximum of $300,000 annually per town.

Provides eligible boards of education with annual operating grants for five years if their preschool program meets standards set by the Commissioner of Early Childhood, with option to apply for grant renewal.

Prioritizes grant applications from boards demonstrating greatest need and allocating at least 50% of preschool spaces to children from families at or below 75% of state median income or eligible for free and reduced price lunches.

Requires preschool programs to employ a certified early childhood educator, comply with National Association for the Education of Young Children standards, obtain accreditation within three years, and commence by the same date as the regular kindergarten school year beginning July 1, 2016.