The Pre-K For All initiative aims to expand the public education system and promote job growth in the Commonwealth. If successful, all 4-year-olds in Kentucky would have access to free pre-k. Since its launch, Kentuckians have sent over 21,000 emails to legislators in support.
The program is estimated to save families $7,000 a year for families with young children. Governor Andy Beshear said building a strong Kentucky starts with investing in kids.
“It could grow Kentucky’s work force by 70,000 people. And of course, it could increase kindergarten readiness in a state where over half of our kids show up not ready for kindergarten. Even a recent Wall Street Journal article highlighted a study showing that pre-k is good for a parent’s career,” said Beshear.
Beshear said the initiative aims to be a community effort.
“We want Pre-K For All to be the people’s plan, which is why we’re travelling all across the state to hear from Kentuckians during this launch. During that time, we’ve heard from businesses, parents, community leaders, about the need for Pre-K For All. We’ve hosted four town halls in Frankfort, northern Kentucky, Bowling Green and Morehead,” said Beshear.
Additionally, the Advisory Committee for the program has held multiple public meetings.
Beshear said the initiative isn’t political, it’s just the state providing education and catching up to surrounding state’s standards. West Virginia has had a similar program for the past 20 years.
Officials are asking Kentuckians to reach out to their local legislators to share their thoughts on the initiative. More information can be found at PreK4All.Ky.gov.