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Bill > S502
NJ S502
NJ S502Establishes one-time grant program to support implementation of free, full-day kindergarten programs in certain school districts; appropriates $5 million.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill directs the Commissioner of Education to establish a one-time grant program to support the implementation of free, full-day kindergarten programs in school districts that do not currently offer the programs. The most recent information for the 2024-2025 school year indicates there are 10 school districts that do not offer free, full-day kindergarten: Moorestown Township Public School District; Haddonfield School District; Metuchen Public School District; Monroe Township School District; Millstone Township School District; School District Of The Chathams; Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District; Hillsborough Township Public School District; Cranford Public School District; and Westfield Public School District. The bill requires school districts to submit an application to the commissioner that includes a plan on how the district will implement free, full-day kindergarten and the costs associated with doing so. The bill appropriates $5 million for the grant program, and the grants would be evenly distributed to the eligible districts.
AI Summary
This bill establishes a one-time grant program, funded by a $5 million appropriation, to help specific school districts implement free, full-day kindergarten programs. The Commissioner of Education will oversee this program, requiring eligible school districts, which are identified as those not currently offering free, full-day kindergarten, to submit an application detailing their implementation plan and associated costs. Once approved, these grants will be evenly distributed among the listed districts to support their transition to offering this educational option.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Education Committee (on 01/13/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/S502 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S1000/502_I1.HTM |
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