MO SB95

Establishes a Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program allowing eligible children ages 3-6 in Missouri to enroll in publicly-funded prekindergarten through approved providers.

Eligible providers include private, for-profit, non-profit, community-based organizations, and public schools that meet department standards and receive public funds.

Department must establish standards for teacher-child ratios, class sizes, student learning standards, staff qualifications, and collaboration guidelines with families and community partners including Head Start and Title I programs.

Department shall begin implementing the program by November 30, 2013, and complete the phase-in by July 1, 2018, subject to appropriations.

Program automatically sunsets six years after the effective date unless reauthorized by the general assembly; if reauthorized, it sunsets twelve years after reauthorization.