RENTON — Three local school districts, including Logan Township, have been awarded funding to expand Pre-K programs, providing more state resources for the early childhood service.
The funding comes from The New Jersey Department of Education’s new Preschool Education Expansion Aid program, which was included in the state budget approved by the Legislature and signed by the Governor has the largest increase in Pre-K funding in more than a decade.
The funding includes: Logan Township District – $327,470; Paulsboro District – $513,555; and Salem County’s Pittsgrove Township District – $396,452.
The districts receiving the additional funding had only received partial state funding for more than 20 years. The districts will now be able to enhance already existing programs by extending hours, decreasing class sizes, and adding additional children.
“We know that high quality Pre-K programs are the single best head start we can give to help children reach their full academic potential,” said Senate President Steve Sweeney. “New Jersey’s programs have gained national attention and respect but they need to be supported and expanded. The continued expansion is a reflection of our continued commitment to providing early childhood education to more young students in more communities across the state.”
“This aid is an investment in our future,” said Deputy Speaker John Burzichelli. “Pre-K is an important stepping stone in a child’s cognitive development that needs full attention and nurturing. Our children will benefit from an enhanced learning environment provided from this funding that will ensure our children have the best resources available to receive a quality education.”
“Early childhood education is one of the best things you can do to enhance the educational experience of school children,” said Assemblyman Adam Taliaferro. “It provides a foundation for their continued education and a benefit for their future. A stronger foundation creates a stronger launching pad for our young minds to succeed.”
