HOUSTON – New rules have been implemented by the Texas Legislature for which kids are eligible for free prekindergarten.
Gov. Greg Abbott signed a bill that would allow children of a person eligible for the Star of Texas Awards to have free enrollment into pre-K. This includes children of peace officers, firefighters and first responders who have demonstrated remarkable courage and heroism in serving and protecting their communities throughout the state.
Who was already eligible for free pre-K? Children who are:
4 years old on or before Sept. 1 of current school year
Unable to speak and comprehend the English language
Educationally disadvantaged (which means a student who is eligible to participate in the national free or reduced-price lunch program)
Homeless
The child of an active duty member of the armed forces of the United States
The child of a member of the armed forces who was injured or killed while on active duty
The child has ever been in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services (foster care) following an adversary hearing held as provided by Section 262.201, Family Code
According to the TEA, a child who is at least 3 years old and meets one of the criteria above will be eligible for free enrollment, only if the district offers pre-K at age 3.
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