1. United States
2. Ky.
3. Letter

I'm asking you to support House Bill 574, which would bring universal preschool to Kentucky by the 2034-2035 school year. This is the smart investment our youngest learners need. HB574 takes a responsible phased approach. Through 2034, districts would serve four-year-olds in households at or below 160% of the federal poverty level. Then every eligible child gets access. The bill ensures quality with a 1:10 staff-to-child ratio, developmentally appropriate curriculum, and meal provisions. It also protects existing Head Start programs by requiring districts to certify those programs are fully utilized before expanding. Early childhood education works. Kids who attend quality preschool are better prepared for kindergarten and more likely to succeed throughout their education. This bill gives Kentucky families what they need without duplicating services or wasting federal dollars. The phased timeline gives districts time to plan, hire qualified staff, and build capacity. Kentucky children deserve the same opportunities as kids in states that already offer universal preschool. Vote yes on HB574.