Clark County leading the charge for universal pre-K
- Feb 20
- 2 min read
Superintendent Dustin Howard is taking an active role in a statewide effort to secure free preschool access for all Kentucky 4-year-olds.
Mr. Howard was asked to speak in support for universal pre-K during the current legislative budget session.
A coalition of 93 state superintendents has called for full implementation of “Pre-K for All,” a proposal that would provide voluntary, publicly funded preschool to every 4-year-old in the state.
“We know early learning works,” Howard said, pointing out that Clark County will offer preschool to every 4-year-old in Clark County beginning with the 2026-27 school year.
“Kentucky should make the most important investment in our children by supporting Pre-K for All,” he said. “The question is no longer if we can afford it, but how can we afford not to?”
Universal pre-K improves kindergarten readiness, boosts long-term academic outcomes, and strengthens the local workforce by helping parents remain employed.
Clark County, a well-known statewide leader in early learning, boasts strong daycare and preschool programs that close achievement gaps before students enter elementary school.
While Clark County Preschool already serves around 300 pre-K students through its income- and needs-based program, universal access would ensure that every family has the opportunity to enroll their child in high-quality early learning.
“Our community believes in strong schools,” Howard said. “Investing early gives our students, and Clark County, the best possible start.”
Universal pre-K is not yet law in Kentucky, which currently provides free public preschool only to 4-year-olds from lower-income families and to 3- and 4-year-olds with disabilities.. Superintendent Howard is part of a statewide push to expand access. The main barrier remains funding, with the 2026 state budget negotiations ongoing.
