NJ S2868

School districts receiving preschool education aid must establish a mixed delivery system by partnering with licensed child care providers and Head Start programs in their community or neighboring communities to provide free preschool opportunities.

Districts must maximize the number of free preschool slots provided through licensed child care providers and Head Start programs that meet program requirements, to the greatest extent feasible.

Districts are prohibited from selectively assigning preschool pupils to district programs, child care providers, or Head Start programs based on age or other characteristics that affect the cost of educating the pupil.

The Department of Education must ensure continuous compliance with mixed delivery requirements and provide guidance and technical assistance to districts, child care providers, and Head Start programs.

The requirements take effect immediately and apply starting with the first full school year following enactment.