Unlocking the Future: Des Moines' Preschool Revolution

In a groundbreaking partnership, the city of Des Moines and Des Moines Public Schools are paving the way for more children to access free, full-day preschool. This initiative, fueled by COVID-19 relief funding, aims to provide lifelong benefits to underserved communities and set the stage for a brighter future.

Empowering the Next Generation: A Transformative Opportunity

Expanding Access to Free Preschool

The city of Des Moines and Des Moines Public Schools have joined forces to offer free, full-day preschool to more 4-year-old children in the upcoming school year. This partnership, which began last year, is made possible by the reallocation of .3 million in COVID-19 relief funding through the American Rescue Plan Act over the next three years.The program specifically targets elementary schools and neighborhoods where poverty levels are high and preschool enrollment is low. By focusing on these underserved areas, the initiative aims to ensure that more children have access to the invaluable benefits of early childhood education.

Unlocking Lifelong Advantages

According to the district, data shows that attending preschool can provide a wealth of lifelong benefits for children. Kristin Rourk, the district's director of early childhood, explains, "We know that those students who attend preschool are more likely to have a higher income and less likely to go to jail. They are more likely to graduate from high school and less likely to need special education services."The impact of this investment in early childhood education cannot be overstated. By "getting them ready," as Rourk emphasizes, the program sets the stage for long-term success, with the benefits continuing to pay off for years to come.

Expanding the Reach

Last year, the funding impacted 120 children across six classrooms. This year, the program will expand to reach 160 children across eight classrooms, further broadening its reach and impact.However, the city leaders acknowledge that the current funding will run out in 2026. This has prompted them to call for state lawmakers to pass a law that would provide all-day funding for universal 4-year-old preschool, ensuring the sustainability and long-term viability of this transformative initiative.

Investing in the Future

The partnership between the city of Des Moines and Des Moines Public Schools represents a strategic investment in the future of the community. By providing free, full-day preschool to underserved children, the program aims to break the cycle of poverty, promote academic success, and empower the next generation to reach their full potential.As the program continues to expand and evolve, it serves as a shining example of how targeted, collaborative efforts can make a profound difference in the lives of young learners. The city's commitment to securing long-term funding for this initiative underscores the importance of sustaining these transformative efforts and ensuring that every child in Des Moines has access to the educational opportunities they deserve.