Bill to Provide Funding for Preschool Parent Participation Programs Clears First Hurdle

en español

Today, the Senate Education Committee unanimously approved Senate Bill 725 by Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) that would create the Parent Participation Preschool Pilot Program to provide up to $45 million in grants for local education agencies to create new or support existing parent participation preschools.

“There is no doubt in my mind that parent involvement helps enrich the learning experience for children that extends beyond the classroom,” said Senator Ochoa Bogh. “Encouraging parent participation at a preschool level is essential and will help parents gain real-life skills and strategies for parenting young children. I appreciate the bipartisan support that my bill received today.”

SB 725 seeks to support preschool programs specifically designed to help parents and caregivers learn how to support their child’s learning and development through their weekly participation in the classroom and educational classes.

These one-time grants would be used for teacher salaries, classrooms, curriculum, and learning development for children. These funds are from Proposition 98 General Fund, but they would be one-time funds and would not impact the minimum guarantee.

If approved by the Legislature and by the Governor, the program would be up and running by March 31, 2022, for awards to be given before the start of the 2022-2023 school year. Senator Ochoa Bogh has also submitted a budget request on this issue.

SB 725 will next head to the Senate Appropriations Committee for its consideration.

To learn more about SB 725 or to show your support please contact my office by clicking here.