Gov. Murphy Announces $2.7M in Second Round of Funding to Expand High-Quality Pre-K

Gov. Phil Murphy announced a second round of more than $2.7 million in preschool expansion aid, bringing high-quality pre-K programs to an additional five school districts.

“Access to high-quality pre-K has been shown to improve long-term educational outcomes for our students,” Murphy said in a Dec. 17 news release. “My administration has prioritized the expansion of these programs across our state, and I am proud to say that 140 districts have been able to create or expand pre-K programs over the past four years. I remain committed to achieving universal pre-K for New Jersey and reaching all of our state’s youngest learners.”

Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan, acting commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Education, said, “One of the most rewarding aspects of this initiative is seeing our efforts lead to real and substantial difference in the lives of so many children. We know that children who attend a quality preschool have a greater chance of success throughout their academic career, and that builds to a greater chance for success after graduation.”

The funding is in addition to the round of 2021-2022 preschool expansion funding announced in September, which provided $17 million in pre-K expansion funding to 19 school districts for the 2021-2022 school year.

Starting in January, the five additional districts will open new programs or expand existing programs, which will give up to 232 additional children access to state-funded, high-quality pre-K programs – defined as one that offers a full-day program with a certificated teacher, an aide, and small class sizes that are inclusive of children with special needs who have an individualized education program.

In September, Murphy announced that the NJDOE will create a universal pre-K strategic plan that will prioritize school districts and set a timeline for expansion; ensure students have appropriate facilities and programming; involve childcare providers and Head Start in planning; optimize funding streams, including federal funds; and utilize best practices from other states that offer expanded/universal preschool programs.

The following districts will receive the second round of 2021-2022 preschool expansion aid: