WV HB5478

Creates the "Kindergarten Readiness Touchpad Pilot Program" to distribute preloaded early-learning tablet devices to eligible preschool-aged children (ages 3-4) in West Virginia

Eligible children must reside in West Virginia and meet income or program criteria, including family income at or below the federal poverty level or enrollment in Head Start, WV Pre-K, WIC, SNAP, Medicaid, or foster/kinship care

Each touchpad kit includes the preloaded device, child-safe headphones, a protective case, and parent/caregiver guides, with all content designed to function without internet access

West Virginia Department of Education will administer the program, selecting participating counties based on kindergarten readiness indicators, child poverty rates, limited broadband access, and partner capacity

Establishes the "Kindergarten Readiness Touchpad Pilot Program Fund" as a special revenue account for procurement, distribution, family engagement, and evaluation costs, with required annual reporting to the Legislative Oversight on Education Accountability