Gov. Murphy Unveils Plan to Expand PreK Access by Amending Sq. Footage Requirement for Child Care Centers

Governor Murphy and state leaders heard our calls for action and are taking steps to remove barriers that prevent child care centers from participating in preschool expansion - most notably, the square footage requirement.

Read Gov. Murphy's News Release

In order to partner with school districts, child care providers often had to combine two classrooms into one, find additional space or undergo a lengthy and expensive licensing process before being able to collaborate.

Now, these regulation changes will help more children access quality early learning, preserve infant and toddler slots and support small businesses which are the backbone of thriving communities.

According to Governor Murphy's news release, "[The NJ Department of Education and the Department of Children and Families] have begun the process of amending their respective rules to hold state-funded and licensed child care centers and preschool programs to the same minimum space requirement of 42 square feet of usable space per child. The Administration intends to formally publish the rulemaking proposal for public comment in spring 2025."

We know that universal preschool can only happen with a robust mixed-delivery model that includes strong collaboration between school districts and community-based child care providers. Thank you for your support as we continue to advocate for New Jersey's children and families.