BUCKLAND, MA — Because the state Department of Early Education and Care has decided to phase out its Inclusive Preschool Learning Environment grant program, the Mohawk Trail Regional School District will have to increase tuition rates and modify the district-funded portion of the early school program at Mohawk elementary schools.

Currently, all preschoolers can receive five free mornings per week in Mohawk elementary schools. With an anticipated loss of $30,000 in state aid, school officials are recommending that 4-year-olds receive four free mornings per week of school and that 3-year-olds receive three free mornings per week. Parents will have the option of paying tuition for afternoons and additional mornings — up to five full days per week.

“I’m absolutely outraged the state is doing this,” Colrain school board member Joseph Kurland remarked.