Shelby County has taken another step toward its goal of providing universal Pre-K education for all children. On Monday, a new ordinance was approved at the Shelby County Administration Building, aiming to offer free preschool education to every child in the county.
Currently, fewer than 60% of children in the area are fully prepared for kindergarten. Supporters of the initiative argue that increasing investment in Pre-K education will benefit not just the children, but the entire city of Memphis in the long term.
“Investing in our youngest learners is not just investing in their futures,” said Laura Garza. “It’s an investment in our city and the future of our state.”
The county and the city are now seeking an additional $1.5 million in funding, which would be managed by Kandace Thomas, Executive Director of First 8, a Memphis-based nonprofit focused on early childhood education.
Although no funds will be allocated until the city council reviews the proposal next week, the new ordinance aims to raise the county’s goal from 90% of children receiving Pre-K education to 100%. This shift could lead to increased funding for the initiative.
“We set high goals, and even though we might not reach 90%, we are committed to doing the best we can to ensure our youth grow up to be positive, contributing members of society,” said Dr. Edmund Ford Jr.
If the funding is approved, additional teachers and classroom resources would be needed. First 8 hopes to achieve universal Pre-K education within a few years, with a five-year plan to enroll all eligible children, including babies, in the program.
