Michigan's 'Pre-K For All' program: Taking down the cost barrier for early education
DETROIT (FOX 2) - The holidays are behind us, meaning children are heading back to school after the break.
Meanwhile, education leaders in Michigan say there is still room for students to get an early education thanks to a new state-funded program.
'Pre K For All' is a program that is expected to tear down the barrier to education, which is the cost.
Educators across the state say if you take away that cost, it could save up to $10,000 a year. All of this is possible because Michigan lawmakers set aside $655 million for the program.
The state of Michigan is setting records when it comes to early child education. Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP, says thousands have enrolled in the state pre-K program.
"More than 45,000 students were enrolled in the Great Start Readiness Program, which is the state primary pre-K program," says Walker-Griffea.
The people at MiLEAP or the Department of Lifelong Education say those numbers could be higher because all 4-year-olds can go to pre-K in Michigan for free.
Educators from across the state are trying to spread the word of this opportunity for families.
"It’s backed by research that shows that children who are in a quality pre-K program grow up to be healthier adults, earning higher wages over their lifetime and achieving success," said Emily Laidlaw, MiLEAP Deputy Director.
"We’re estimating that about $450 million is now staying in our Michigan family’s pockets," said Walker-Griffea.
With the opportunity for roughly 15,000 more 4-year-olds in 2024 alone, they are aware of issues of overcrowded classrooms and a lack of staff.
Officials say there are measures in place to address those problems as well.
"Utilizing the startup grants to support space and staff in order to make sure that classrooms have what they need to succeed for kids," said Laidlaw.
This program is available to all families with a child who turned four before Dec. 1, 2024.
You need a birth certificate, proof of residence, and a few other items to enroll on the Michigan website.