Varied results as pre-k access grows around the country. Florida, Iowa, Oklahoma, and West Virginia hold some of the highest participation rates and DC is the only location to provide universal preschool at ages 3 and 4.
Expanding access to pre-kindergarten across Maryland is a primary tenant of the Early Education pillar of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. Other states also see the benefits but implementation, funding, and scope of programs varies widely. This Stateline article discusses challenges faced in implementing pre-K programs across the United States as well as policy changes others are making to address barriers and ensure equitable access to early childhood education nationwide.
To date forty-four states offer some free preschool, with many currently expanding their programs. The chart below shows the percentage of participating four year olds by state. Funding is cited as a barrier for many, with states including Colorado, Texas, Washington, and Pennsylvania who have looked to sales, excise, and property taxes to cover some of the costs.
