NC H367

Establishes a three-year pilot project to implement the "ApSeed" program, which uses interactive learning devices called "seedlings" to prepare children ages birth through four years old for prekindergarten.

Requires participation by five counties: Forsyth, Hoke, New Hanover, Watauga, and Yadkin, with each county selecting preschool-age children with the greatest need, considering poverty level as a factor.

Appropriates $2,500,000 in nonrecurring funds for each year of the 2019-2021 fiscal biennium, with each county receiving up to $500,000 annually, and includes nonrecurring funds for the 2021-2022 fiscal year.

Requires the Division of Child Development and Early Education to submit a report within six months after project completion detailing number of children served, skills gained compared to non-participants, parental involvement, total costs, and funding needed for statewide expansion.

Becomes effective July 1, 2019.