An Act ensuring high quality pre-kindergarten education

HD 608 creates a state grant program to fund high-quality pre-kindergarten education for children aged 2 years and 9 months through kindergarten age in Massachusetts school districts. The bill requires grantees (school districts or regional collaborations) to meet specific standards, including a 10:1 child-to-instructor ratio, full-day programs, teacher qualifications, inclusion of children with disabilities, and partnerships with community early learning programs. Funding prioritizes districts with the highest percentage of "high-need" students (as defined by the state) and gives preference to underperforming schools, with districts required to establish local governing councils and submit quarterly progress reports. The program aims to reduce achievement gaps and improve third-grade reading scores through evidence-based curricula and comprehensive support services.