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Iowa House approves rules for preschool attendance

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March 12th, 2013 by Ric Hanson

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Iowa House has approved legislation that would require children enrolled in the state’s voluntary preschool program to attend regularly. Lawmakers approved the bill Monday, which would make 4-year-olds in the program subject to compulsory attendance rules. The bill would not lower the mandatory attendance age, and parents could choose to withdraw their children from the classes. Supporters say the bill ensures children enrolled in the preschool classes are taking advantage of the opportunity.

Iowa’s preschool program was established in 2007 under former Gov. Chet Culver. More than 20,000 kids were enrolled in the program in the 2011-2012 school year, and 320 districts received program funding. The bill now moves to the state Senate for review.