LOPATCONG TOWNSHIP, NJ – The Lopatcong Township School District is set to significantly expand its preschool program after receiving approval on October 3, 2024.
On August 15, the district’s Board of Education approved a funding application following the State of New Jersey’s announcement of the fourth round of Preschool Expansion Aid grants.
Currently, Lopatcong Elementary School offers three half-day, tuition-based preschool classes and one class for preschoolers with disabilities, serving around 40 students. In contrast, nearby Phillipsburg provides full-day preschool and kindergarten programs for children aged 3 and 4. The new grant will enable Lopatcong to introduce five full-day preschool classes at no cost for local residents. This expansion will be supported through partnerships with local childcare providers, including Busy Bees Learning Center and Kiddie Academy of Lopatcong.
“This is an exciting time for our community, and this program will bring many benefits to our students and families,” stated the Lopatcong Township School District.
The 2024-25 Preschool Expansion Aid grant was announced by the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) on July 2, 2024. This funding opportunity is available to local educational agencies that do not currently receive preschool expansion aid and offer full-day kindergarten. As part of the state’s requirements, no current preschool students will lose their places due to this expansion. Children already enrolled in Lopatcong Elementary School’s preschool program and those at partner childcare facilities will be guaranteed spots in the expanded program. Any additional openings will be filled through a lottery system, with further details to be provided if funding is confirmed.
While guaranteed placement is ensured, specific locations and programs cannot be promised. The district will strive to accommodate parents’ top choices, but placements will depend on availability.
The district’s Early Childhood Advisory Council will meet on October 10, 2024, to finalize plans for implementation.
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