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Bill > HB829
PA HB829
PA HB829In duties and powers of boards of school directors, further providing for kindergartens; in pupils and attendance, further providing for age limits and temporary residence, for definitions and for when provided; and, in early learning programs, providing for full-day kindergarten.
summary
Introduced
03/10/2025
03/10/2025
In Committee
03/10/2025
03/10/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), entitled "An act relating to the public school system, including certain provisions applicable as well to private and parochial schools; amending, revising, consolidating and changing the laws relating thereto," in duties and powers of boards of school directors, further providing for kindergartens; in pupils and attendance, further providing for age limits and temporary residence, for definitions and for when provided; and, in early learning programs, providing for full-day kindergarten.
AI Summary
This bill mandates the establishment of full-day kindergarten for children ages three to five across Pennsylvania's school districts by the 2026-2027 school year. The legislation requires school districts to provide kindergarten facilities free of charge, either by operating their own programs, jointly with other districts in the same intermediate unit, or by contracting with approved providers. Key provisions include establishing a Full-Day Kindergarten Implementation Advisory Committee to develop a comprehensive state plan, setting standards for kindergarten programs such as maintaining a maximum class size of 18 children and a 10:1 student-to-teacher ratio, and ensuring that kindergarten teachers meet state certification requirements. The bill emphasizes the importance of early childhood education, citing research that demonstrates how high-quality early education supports children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development and ensures school readiness. Additionally, the legislation calls for developing professional development opportunities for kindergarten teachers, addressing potential funding mechanisms, and creating a plan to support children with disabilities, limited English proficiency, and other special needs. The bill represents a significant shift from optional to mandatory full-day kindergarten, with the goal of providing a strong educational foundation for young learners across Pennsylvania.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (16)
Gregory Scott (D)*,
Missy Cerrato (D),
Bob Freeman (D),
José Giral (D),
Roni Green (D),
Liz Hanbidge (D),
Carol Hill-Evans (D),
Maureen Madden (D),
Dave Madsen (D),
Steve Malagari (D),
Danielle Otten (D),
Chris Pielli (D),
Tarah Probst (D),
Chris Rabb (D),
Nikki Rivera (D),
Ben Sanchez (D),
Last Action
Referred to Education (on 03/10/2025)
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