More on Pre-K

Dear Editor,
    This message is regarding the sub-article "Lawmakers Agree to Improve School Funding," [News, May 31] by Austin Sanders. In this article Mr. Sanders writes about "state funding for full-day, high-quality pre-K for low-income students." Please note there are seven ways to qualify for pre-K in the state of Texas. A child who is eligible for free or reduced meals based on family income is only one of those seven ways. The seven possible eligibility requirements listed on the TEA Early Childhood page include a child who is

unable to speak and comprehend the English language; or
   

eligible to participate in the national free / reduced meal program based on family income; or
   

homeless, as defined by 42 U.S.C. Section 1143a, regardless of the residence of the child, of either parent of the child, or of the child's guardian or other person having lawful control of the child; or
   

the child of an active duty member of the armed forces of the United States, including the state military forces or a reserve component of the armed forces, who is ordered to active duty by proper authority; or
   

the child of a member of the armed forces of the United States, including the state military forces or a reserve component of the armed forces, who was injured or killed while serving on active duty; or
   

has ever been in the conservatorship of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services following an adversary hearing held as provided by Section 262.201, Family Code; or
   

the child of a person eligible for the Star of Texas Award under Section 3106.002, Section 3106.003, or Section 3106.004, Government Code.

    Thank you for including news about pre-K in your article. As an employee of a school district in Central Texas we have a very difficult time informing the public about correct information regarding pre-K in Texas. We appreciate all of the help we can get!