State officials still have enough cash to cover preschool programs for about 9,000 more kids—which can save their families about $10,000 on child care costs this year.
MICHIGAN—This year’s state budget includes enough funding to cover a variety of preschool offerings for about 54,000 Michigan children at no direct cost to their families.
It’s part of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s PreK for All initiative, which was approved by Democratic lawmakers last year and is aimed at easing everyday costs for parents by fully funding preschool for about 75% of four-year-old children—or about 88,000 kids—across Michigan
But with only about 45,000 kids enrolled so far this year, state officials this week are urging about 9,000 more kids to get with the program—and start saving their families some cash.
Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of the state Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential, called a press conference on Tuesday to help raise awareness of the state funding opportunities that are still available for Michigan families this year.
“We know learning starts well before kindergarten, and families should know that there’s still time to enroll 4-year-olds in free, high-quality PreK programs across the state,” she said. “Michigan’s balanced, bipartisan budget expanded access to PreK for all Michigan families regardless of income. We are working with our partners to connect Michigan children and families with the lifelong educational opportunities they need on their path to prosperity.”
Under the program, most Michigan families—regardless of their income—are guaranteed access to free, high-quality public education beginning with preschool. This year’s budget included $130 million to fund the initiative, which expanded offerings to about 54,000 kids.
State officials estimate the initiative will save families an average of $10,000 a year for each child they have in preschool, as well as expand opportunities for early learning across the state—namely by earmarking $25 million to open new classrooms in underserved areas.
“We can all agree Michigan families need to save money during these challenging times, and PreK for All is a way for families to keep more money in their pockets,” said Amy Mroueh, director of Blossom Learning Center. “High-quality PreK means families can go to work each day knowing their child is in a safe environment with caring adults and highly qualified teachers.”
Families still have time to enroll 4-year-olds in no-cost preschool for this school year, though state officials are urging parents to act with urgency to ensure their child can secure a slot.
Visit miprekforall.org to find programs near you that meet your family’s unique needs and learn how to enroll. For families seeking child care options, visit the Great Start to Quality website.
READ MORE: Whitmer says free preschool gives kids ‘shot at great life’
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