An Act providing for universal pre-k for 3- to 5-year-olds

This bill establishes a universal pre-kindergarten program in Massachusetts for all children aged 2 years and 9 months to 5 years who are not yet enrolled in kindergarten. The legislation mandates that the state department of education provide publicly funded pre-k services with a minimum of 30 hours per week in public or public charter schools. Key provisions include creating a new advisory council to oversee program quality and staffing, ensuring diverse representation among teachers, and setting minimum salary requirements for pre-k instructors. The bill aims to create equitable learning environments that support the social, emotional, and cognitive development of every young child in the state.