Chandler Unified approves $250,000 funding for early childhood education program

The Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) Governing Board convened on June 25, 2025, to discuss key funding initiatives and operational budgets for early childhood education programs. The meeting highlighted the financial support provided to local educational initiatives, particularly those funded through the statewide tobacco tax initiative.

The board began by addressing the financial contributions to a local early childhood education program, which receives approximately $250,000 from the East Maricopa Regional Council as part of the First Things First initiative. This funding primarily covers employee salaries and benefits, with additional in-kind support including free rent, utilities, and phone services, bringing the total operational budget for the program to around $423,000. Board members noted that CUSD effectively contributes over $300,000 to this program, emphasizing its integral role in the district despite being state-sponsored.

Discussion also focused on the fluctuating nature of funding from the tobacco tax, which has historically supported early childhood education but has seen reductions in recent years. Board members acknowledged the challenges posed by decreased revenue, which has led to a reduction in available scholarships for preschool programs. The board clarified that the $80,000 referenced in the meeting pertains to a different funding source within the First Things First initiative, which is allocated separately for preschool scholarships.

After thorough discussion, the board unanimously approved the funding item related to the early childhood education program, reinforcing its commitment to supporting local educational initiatives despite budgetary constraints. The meeting concluded with a call for continued efforts to meet the goals set by the First Things First initiative, ensuring that the needs of families and children in the community are effectively addressed.