What is it? It is a measure which would raise $2.4 billion to provide voluntary, free preschool to all four-year-olds in California by 2010. It would be funded by a 1.7% tax increase on individuals earning above $400,000 a year and couples earning above $800,000. The program would:
- offer preschool three hours a day, 180 days a year.
- raise teacher salaries, provide support for teachers going back to school,and pay for facilities.
- require participating head teachers to get a BA in Early Childhood Education and an early learning credential by 2016.
- be run by county superintendents of schools who could contract with quality preschool programs, including school districts, centers, family child care homes.
For more information: Preschool CA, 510-271-0075, or www.action.preschoolcalifornia.org
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