43.215.142 - Early learning program -- Voluntary preschool opportunities -- Funding and statewide implementation -- Reports. - Washington Statutes

Early learning program — Voluntary preschool opportunities — Funding and statewide implementation — Reports.

(1) Funding for the program of early learning established under this chapter must be appropriated to the department. Allocations must be made on the basis of eligible children enrolled with eligible providers.

     (2) The program shall be implemented in phases, so that full implementation is achieved in the 2018-19 school year.

     (3) For the initial phase of the early learning program in school years 2011-12 and 2012-13, the legislature shall appropriate funding to the department for implementation of the program in an amount not less than the 2009-2011 enacted budget for the early childhood education and assistance program. The appropriation shall be sufficient to fund an equivalent number of slots as funded in the 2009-2011 enacted budget.

     (4) Beginning in the 2013-14 school year, additional funding for the program must be phased in beginning in school districts providing all-day kindergarten programs under RCW 28A.150.315.

     (5) Funding shall continue to be phased in incrementally each year until full statewide implementation of the early learning program is achieved in the 2018-19 school year, at which time any eligible child shall be entitled to be enrolled in the program.

     (6) The department and the office of financial management shall annually review the caseload forecasts for the program and, beginning December 1, 2012, and annually thereafter, report to the governor and the appropriate committees of the legislature with recommendations for phasing in additional funding necessary to achieve statewide implementation in the 2018-19 school year.

     (7) School districts and approved community-based early learning providers may contract with the department to provide services under the program. The department shall collaborate with school districts, community-based providers, and educational service districts to promote an adequate supply of approved providers.

[2010 c 231 § 4.]