Governor Andy Beshear has appointed 28 people to be members of the new Pre-K for All Advisory Committee. Among those members will be Morehead Mayor Laura White-Brown, who officials said will provide local, rural, and Appalachian perspective to the committee.
The Pre-K for All Initiative aims to make early education available to every child despite income or location to improve long-term academic outcomes. Mayor White-Brown said this effort can be transformative for both children and communities alike.
“Also better equip our four-year-olds by the time they get to kindergarten. So, making sure that they are more emotionally, cognitively, and intellectually prepared for the school system,” said White-Brown.
According to KY Stats, 53.8% of Kentucky children currently enter kindergarten unprepared. Mayor White-Brown said access to early learning can solve economic issues by supporting working families, employers, and community growth.
“The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce actually gave us information that said between 40 and 70 thousand people do not work because of childcare. So, being able to have that options for people at home with young families is a huge component,” said White-Brown.
State officials say the Pre-K for All Advisory Committee aims to help develop implementation strategies, advise on funding mechanisms, and ensure local voices are considered with statewide planning.