(a) Each LEA applying for programs under §§ 49-6-103 – 49-6-110 shall create and appoint a community pre-K advisory council. The director of schools, or the director’s designee, shall serve as chair and coordinate the activities of the council. The council shall include, but not be limited to, members representing the local school board, parents, teachers, nonprofit providers, for-profit providers, Head Start, the business community and local government funding bodies, where applicable. The council shall provide input to the local board of education in creating the board’s application for programs, taking into consideration the number and type of existing programs currently serving children four (4) years of age within the geographical area served by the LEA.
Ask a legal question, get an answer ASAP! Click here to chat with a lawyer about your rights.
(b) While the content of the final application for programs shall be within the sole authority of the local school board, no board shall submit an application without first allowing the council to provide input, either in writing or otherwise, and without first giving due consideration to the council’s input and recommendations. The board’s application shall include a description of the extent to which the council was afforded an opportunity to provide input in the application process.
