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From Center for Law and Social Policy:
In 1965, Congress approved a sweeping array of education programs, including Head Start, guaranteed student loans and the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), the centerpiece of which was, and remains, Title I---the largest source of federal education aid to states for lowincome students.
When NCLB was passed, Congress provided funding authorization levels commensurate with the law's accountability and other requirements.
Between 2002 and 2005, however, the gap between what Congress promised and what Congress provided for NCLB programs was $27 billion.
While Title I was increased by 3% in fiscal year 2005, the number of children living in poverty increased by 6%---further limiting the Title I dollars available for each poor child.
Funds for the year have not yet been appropriated.
This has the effect of cutting or freezing funding for 90% of districts in 2006-2007 (Center on Education Policy).
Title I funds can be used for preschool or to supplement or expand other early childhood education programs, such as state-funded prekindergarten, Head Start, Even Start, or Early Reading First.
Title I funds may be used in conjunction with existing programs, including communitybased child care programs, and the Child Care and Development Block Grant.
Dollars are flexible: Communities can use the funds to best meet their own needs---to improve quality, provide comprehensive services, expand opportunities, or lengthen the day for low-income children.
NCLB pressures may be driving dollars away from preschool exactly when early investments will pay off the most and help states and local communities meet their 3rd-grade goals.
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Posted on December 12, 2006 07:19 PM
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