BAYONNE - This week the Bayonne Board of Education received notice that they will receive over $7.8 million from the New Jersey Department of Education that will allow them to offer full-day pre-k in September 2019. Last year, Bayonne received $3.4 million in state funding for pre-k. With limited space and funds, the Bayonne Board of Education had only 65 full-day pre-k students.  Under the approved plan, Bayonne will potentially serve 585 students. 

“Pre-K access has been linked to improved educational success later in life,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “But for too many in our state, access to pre-k has been defined by zip code and income level. Those days will soon be behind us. Our Administration is making strides in leveling the playing field for New Jersey’s children and we are proud to work with Senator Cunningham, Assemblyman Chiaravalloti, Assemblywoman McKnight, and Mayor Davis, to expand pre-k access for Bayonne’s children.”

“Behind every successful initiative like this one are real children and real families who benefit,” said Education Commissioner Lamont O. Repollet. “We know that high-quality preschool helps children build the readiness skills they need for success later on in school, and these foundational skills continue to pay dividends throughout a person’s life.”

“This is a potential game changer for the City of Bayonne.  I commend Governor Murphy and Commissioner Repollet for their vision in making funding public education a priority in New Jersey,” stated Mayor James Davis. “In the past two years, Bayonne has seen significant increases in funding for our schools. Our dedicated team in Trenton, led by Senator Cunningham, Assemblyman Chiaravalloti and Assemblywoman McKnight, have delivered for Bayonne.  On this issue, I know how passionate Nicholas was in assuring that Bayonne be able to provide full-day pre-k in 2019-2020.”

“We are excited about the opportunity this offers our parents and children. This award is the result of the efforts of the Cabinet and Early Childhood team at the Board of Education and Assemblyman Chiaravalloti.  From the moment we discussed this possibility, Nicholas has made securing these funds his top priority,” stated Dr. Michael Wanko, Interim Superintendent.

“Data has shown that full-day pre-k impacts a child’s future academic success.  Bayonne children now have the same opportunity as other children in New Jersey.  Bringing Pre-K for all to Bayonne has been a major goal of mine since joining the Assembly in 2015.  I am very thankful to Governor Murphy and Commissioner Repollet for their commitment to public education,” stated Assemblyman Chiaravalloti. “This is about the future of Bayonne. Extended-day preschool has dramatic and lasting effects when it is high quality. I congratulate the staff and leadership at the Board for responding to the challenge and preparing a superior application.”