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Gadsden district moves to tuition-based preschool after federal grant cut; sets $140 weekly rate
Summary
Following withdrawal of federal preschool grant funding in December 2025, the Gadsden Elementary School District No. 32 board approved transitioning to a tuition-based preschool model at $140 per week for 2026–27 while retaining four classrooms and staff.
The Gadsden Elementary School District No. 32 Governing Board approved a move to a tuition-based preschool model for the 2026–27 school year after district leaders reported federal preschool grant funding was withdrawn in December 2025.
Superintendent Lizette Esparza told the board the district completed the spring semester using district funds and has been working with staff and legislators to present student outcome data that may support future funding. To continue operating preschool without the prior grant, the district will implement a tuition-based model at $140 per week per student, operating Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The administration reported the program will continue to operate four classrooms and no employees will be laid off as a result of the change.
Esparza said the state redirected the prior federal funding toward strategic planning and professional development initiatives. She also noted some districts charge up to $160 per week; the district aims to keep costs as affordable as possible. Board President Tadeo A. De La Hoya and administrators participated in meetings with preschool staff to answer questions and outline next steps.
The motion to approve the tuition-based preschool program passed 3–0. The district indicated that if federal or state funding is restored, the model could be revisited and brought back to the board for consideration.
