Linsky Secures Funding for Kindergarten Expansion Grants

BOSTON – Representative David Linsky (D-Natick) joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts Legislature on Wednesday in securing funding for Kindergarten Expansion Grants in the FY16 Budget. These funds ensure that communities across the Commonwealth will have the resources to continue to invest in successful full-day kindergarten programs.

The $18,589,713 appropriated by the House in the $38.14 billion spending bill level funded Kindergarten Expansion Grants at the FY15 level after 9C cuts announced by Governor Charlie Baker in February. These grants will help to continue quality enhancements of towns and cities that already have existing full-day kindergarten, and to expand other towns and cities from half-day to full-day programs. With the help of these grants, the percentage of children statewide attending a full-day program has risen from 29 to 92 percent between fiscal years 1999 and 2015, resulting in increased student achievement, lower grade retention and lower dropout rates for students later in life, according to the National Education Association.

“I am pleased that the budget conference committee ensured funding for the continuation of Kindergarten Expansion Grants,” said Representative Linsky. “These funds are an essential investment in our young students and their families in communities across Massachusetts. I am proud to be from a Commonwealth where we value high quality, accessible early childhood education for all.”

The FY16 Budget now goes to the Office of the Governor where Governor Baker will have 10 days to review the annual spending bill before signing it and announcing any amendments or vetoes.