Enfield to Receive $280K State Grant to Add to Preschool Program

Enfield is poised to receive $280,000 in a state grant that will create classroom space for 26 children to attend preschool.

The grant is one of 14 announced Monday by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy who said that more than $3.5 million in state funding is being awarded to expand the availability of high-quality preschool to a total of 416 additional children around the state.

Funds for the expansion come under the state’s Smart Start initiative which was signed into law by Malloy in 2014. This is the first year of the 10-year initiative. A total of $1,587,055 for capital improvements will be considered at an upcoming meeting of the State Bond Commission, in addition to $2,088,350 for operational expenses from the Tobacco Settlement fund.

Enfield will receive $150,000 for capital improvements and another $130,000 for operational funding.

“We must ensure that children are equipped with the tools they need to succeed in life – regardless of income or zip code,” Malloy said in a statement. “Expanding the availability of preschool options in our state will prepare them for college and careers in a global, 21st Century economy.”

Communities applying for capital improvements are expected to go before the State Bond Commission in April with funding anticipated to be available in May. Operational expenses for classrooms beginning in September will be available in July.

In order to be eligible for Smart Start funding, districts need to demonstrate an unmet need for preschool in their communities. Enrollment priority is given to children from low-income families, children with special needs and children who are dual language learners receive priority enrollment.

To sign up for breaking Enfield news alerts and more, click here.

• A Dance Benefit for the Enfield Food Shelf
• Enfield Senior Center Is Accepting Reservations for Sightseeing Tour of Baltimore, Washington DC
• UPDATE: Snowstorm Prompts Program Cancellations in Enfield, Garbage Pickup Delays, Parking Ban

Photo credit: Jen via Flickr.com