As the election for the Pima County Board of Supervisors approaches on November 5, candidates are expressing mixed opinions about the county’s role in funding early childhood education.
In 2021, Pima County launched the Pima Early Education Program Scholarships (PEEPS) to help families cover the costs of early education for children ages 3 to 5. This program allows children to attend early childhood education at local school districts, charter schools, or private institutions. It is funded through the county’s share of the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), as well as contributions from the city of Tucson, Marana, Oro Valley, and the nonprofit United Way of Tucson & Southern Arizona.
The county allocated around $10 million for the PEEPS program in the 2024 fiscal year. Once federal funding runs out, the county plans to use special property taxes designated for the library system to maintain support.
Families with incomes up to 300% of the federal poverty level, or $93,600 for a family of four, qualify for assistance. In its third year, the program served over 1,900 children, according to the 2024 annual report.
Rex Scott, the incumbent Supervisor for District 1, expressed pride in supporting the program. He emphasized its importance, noting that children who attend preschool are better prepared for kindergarten. “If you’re a family struggling to pay bills or afford basic needs, you may find it hard to cover preschool costs,” Scott explained. “This puts you at a disadvantage compared to families who can afford it.”
Scott framed the issue as one of economic development, highlighting support from local business organizations. “If employees lack childcare options, they can’t go to work,” he said. He criticized state cuts to preschool funding, stating it is vital for the county to step in.
His opponent, Republican Steve Spain, did not respond to inquiries about his stance on the PEEPS program but has criticized county spending during his campaign.
District 1 is considered a swing district, with 35% registered Democrats, 33% registered Republicans, and 32% not affiliated with either party. Spain lost to Scott by 730 votes in 2020.
Supervisor Matt Heinz, also seeking re-election, echoed Scott’s support. “It’s important for helping children and families start on the right path,” he said.
Republican challenger John Backer acknowledged the program’s value but suggested potential changes. “We could reduce the amount spent or help more families by focusing on need-based assistance,” he proposed.
District 2, which extends from midtown Tucson to Sahuarita, leans Democratic, with 41% registered Democrats and 22% registered Republicans.
In District 3, Democrat Jen Allen, running for an open seat, described the PEEPS program as crucial for early education and childcare stability. “Early Childhood Education sets the foundation for a child’s success,” she asserted. Republican Janet “JL” Wittenbraker opposed the program, suggesting that childcare assistance should come from state or charitable programs, not local government.
District 3, which borders the U.S.-Mexico border, includes various communities and is home to the Tohoho O’odham Nation. It features a diverse voter registration, with 36% registered Democrats, 28% registered Republicans, and 36% independent.
Supervisor Steve Christy, the only Republican on the board, opposed the PEEPS program, claiming it benefits only a small portion of the community. “I think it’s a subsidization of nursery school,” he stated, arguing that education funding should come from the state.
His Democratic opponent, tourism executive Vanessa Bechtol, countered that the program benefits both children and working families. “Investing in early childhood education supports our community in many ways,” she said.
District 4 leans Republican, with 36% registered with the GOP, 31% with the Democratic Party, and 33% independent voters.
Supervisor Adelita Grijalva, chair of the board, praised the program for helping struggling parents and preparing children for school. “More districts are getting involved,” she noted.
Val Romero, an independent candidate running against Grijalva, also supports the program.
District 5 spans Central Tucson, with nearly half of the voters registered as Democrats.
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