NJ wins federal grant for preschool expansion

New Jersey was one of 18 states chosen for a Preschool Development Grant from the federal government. The state said the funding would be used to provide quality preschool in high-need communities.

The state Department of Education (DOE) indicated more than 2,300 children will benefit in 19 districts.

The Garden State is eligible for up to $17.5 million for each of the next four years. The grants for all states totaled more than $226 million in FY2014.

"We have a reputation of having the best preschool program in the country, and the fact that New Jersey was one of the handful of states that secured this funding is very positive," said Cecilia Zalkind, executive director of Advocates for Children of New Jersey.

Dozens of states applied for the federal assistance; some received startup funds, and others, including New Jersey, received funding to expand their preschool programs. New Jersey's program currently operates in 35 districts.

The DOE said the funding will help hire certified teachers, as well as reduce class size and implement a "developmentally appropriate curriculum."

"We are committed to using high-quality preschool access as a key level in closing the achievement gap, and we're pleased we can extend the benefits of this program to even more at-risk children in our state," said Acting Education Commissioner David Hespe in a press release emailed on Dec. 10.

Federal education officials said states receiving the grant can serve as models for the country.