The Republican-controlled House Education committee backed full-day kindergarten Tuesday, voting 15-4 to give districts who offer full-day programming full state aid.
Right now, whether districts offer full- or half-day programs, they receive half the state’s per-pupil education grant. Senate Bill 191, which doesn’t require that districts move to full-day programs, would cost the state about an additional $14.5 million.
Gov. Chris Sununu, a Republican, has made support for full-day kindergarten a major issue. He had proposed an alternative plan, a $9 million grant program to give targeted aid to districts based on the number of English language learners and low-income students.
“Today’s actions are a big step forward for NH. #FullDayK is good for children, families, and a critical tool in retaining our workforce,” the governor wrote on Twitter after the committee vote.
SB 191 now heads to the House Finance Committee.
Lola Duffort