Michigan’s Ambitious Plan to Broaden Pre-K Access
In a bid to enhance early childhood education, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has unveiled a plan aimed at expanding free pre-K programs to encompass more three-year-olds across the state. This initiative was highlighted during an event at a South Lyon early childhood learning center.
Embedded in Michigan’s fiscal budget for 2024-25 is a substantial allocation of $655.3 million dedicated to the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP). This initiative already extends pre-K education to eligible four-year-olds. The governor’s upcoming fiscal year budget seeks to elevate this funding to $676.1 million.
Beverly Walker-Griffea, who leads the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential, underscored the financial relief these programs offer Michigan families. “Saving families on average ten thousand dollars in child care costs, which adds up to an estimated $450 million,” she noted.
Further enhancing the scope of the program, the proposed budget earmarks $61 million to broaden a pilot initiative specifically for three-year-olds. However, this proposal is pending legislative approval.
State House Speaker Matt Hall has expressed a cautious willingness to evaluate the governor’s budget proposals. While House Republicans are prepared to scrutinize the plans, Hall emphasized that any government expansion should not burden taxpayers unduly.
The move to widen pre-K access has garnered strong backing from educators. Michael Lloyd, Principal at the South Lyon Early Childhood Center, stressed the importance of accessible preschool education, stating, “No family should have to pay out-of-pocket for a high-quality preschool experience.”
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