1. Lead with a focus on equity - on behalf of children, families, and programs serving young children
2. Connect partners and implementers to promote coherence and integration of early childhood and TK-12 systems
3. Respect and leverage the knowledge and expertise of the early learning and care and expanded learning communities
4. Approach UPK planning and implementation with a learning mindset
5. Approach UPK planning and implementation as an informer and capacity-builder at all levels

California’s historic investments in early education have created new and expanded opportunities to provide equitable learning experiences for all young students. Universal prekindergarten implementation will rely on a mixed-delivery system, supported by investments in universal transitional kindergarten, state preschool, and expanded learning, as well as comprehensive support for multilingual learners and students with disabilities. Critical to this mixed-delivery system are two key programs: transitional kindergarten and state preschool, and the additional delivery options offered through programs such as Head Start, community-based preschool programs, family child care, and family, friend, and neighbor care.

 

Assembly Bill (AB) 130* (2021–22) established an early education initiative to expand access to classroom-based prekindergarten programs offered by school districts, county offices of education, or charter schools. The collaboration among county offices of education, local educational agencies, state preschool programs, expanded learning programs, community partners, and families is essential to ensure a clearly articulated preschool through third grade early education system for all students.

*As modified by AB 167 which revised the methodology for allocating base, enrollment, and supplemental grants to local educational agencies.