Diversity Elementary school students who sit on the classroom floor listen to Asian female teachers tell stories. Concept of education and learning

New jersey allocates $33 million for preschool facility expansion — Diversity Elementary school students who sit on the classroom floor listen to Asian female teachers tell stories. Concept of education and learning

TRENTON, NJ — Governor Phil Murphy and Acting Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer announced the allocation of $33 million in federal grant funding to expand preschool facilities across New Jersey. This funding is part of the Murphy Administration’s ongoing efforts to provide universal access to high-quality preschool throughout the state.

Governor Murphy emphasized the administration’s commitment to universal preschool access, stating that high-quality preschool is a critical investment for the future educational success of children. Acting Commissioner Dehmer highlighted the challenge many communities face in finding adequate facilities for preschool programs. This funding aims to address those challenges and move closer to achieving universal preschool for all children.

This $33 million is part of the second round of Universal Preschool Facilities Expansion Grants, made possible through federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars allocated in the Fiscal Year 2023 State Budget. To date, $86.9 million has been distributed, funding 35 projects in 27 school districts and creating over 3,500 preschool seats. The grants prioritize proposals that expand preschool seats by at least 10%, enhance facilities, transition programs from half-day to full-day, and increase classroom capacity for new preschool programs.

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