A Microsoft Word version of this letter is available for download and PRINTING.

July 24, 2008

To the Administrator Addressed:

Subject: Texas Free Prekindergarten Program Update: Eligibility of children who are in or who have been in Foster Care

We would like to take this opportunity to remind school districts and open-enrollment charter schools of the six categories of children eligible for free prekindergarten, and to draw particular attention to the sixth category added during the last legislative session.

Texas Free Prekindergarten
In 2007, the Texas Legislature amended Section 29.153 of the Texas Education Code to include among those who are eligible for free prekindergarten, children who are in or who have ever been in the conservatorship of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) following an adversary hearing. This includes not only children who are in or who have been in DFPS conservatorship, but also children who have been adopted or returned to their parents after being in DFPS conservatorship. For guidance and procedures for reporting student attendance of eligible prekindergarten students, please refer to Section 7 of the 2008-2009 Student Attendance Accounting Handbook.

Texas Education Code §29.153, Free Prekindergarten for Certain Children

Summary of Eligibility:
A child is eligible for enrollment in prekindergarten if at least three years of age and:

1. is unable to speak and comprehend the English language;
2. is educationally disadvantaged;
3. is homeless;
4. is the child of an active duty member of the armed forces of the United States;
5. is the child of a member of the armed forces who was injured or killed while on active duty; or
6. is or ever has been in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services following an adversary hearing.

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, Division of Child Protective Services (DFPS/CPS) mailed verification letters of prekindergarten eligibility to the parents and caregivers of the 15,000 eligible children. Please accept that letter as proof of eligibility. Contact the DFPS Education Specialist in your area for assistance (list attached) or for a description of other forms of proof of eligibility.

Sincerely,

Gina S. Day
Deputy Associate Commissioner, State Initiatives

Attachment I - Free Kindergarten for Certain Children
Attachment II - DFPS/CPS Education Specialists