Bill > HB1450

This bill establishes a state transition to kindergarten policy designed to support four-year-old children who either need additional preparation for kindergarten or live in areas with extreme child care shortages. The bill requires the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) to collaborate with the Department of Children, Youth, and Families to regulate the enrollment of eligible children, with specific provisions to limit and distribute approved enrollment sites across the state. Schools must obtain advance approval to enroll state-funded children, which involves submitting a detailed application that includes a local child care needs assessment, screening processes, and verification of collaboration with existing early learning programs. The bill defines "eligible children" as four-year-olds who either need additional kindergarten preparation or lack access to existing early learning programs due to living in a "child care access desert." Schools are prohibited from charging tuition for these programs and must follow guidelines for site readiness, curriculum, and professional development. Importantly, the funding for this program is separate from basic education funding, and enrollment does not constitute an individual entitlement for children. The legislation aims to strengthen coordination between early learning programs while minimizing disruption to existing child care systems.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1450&Year=2025&Initiative=false