On January 11, 2022, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey gave her State of the State Address and released budget recommendations to the Alabama Legislature for 2022-2023. In her recommendations, the longtime pre-k champion proposed a $22.5 million increase for Alabama’s First Class Pre-K program for 2022-2023.
According to Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education Secretary Dr. Barbara Cooper, the additional funding would add new classrooms to bring enrollment from 42 to 45 percent of the state’s four-year-olds. The funds would also help expand the Early Learning Educator Apprenticeship program to five locations across the state, and support summer and after school opportunities for pre-k children.
In February, Governor Ivey’s budget recommendations will considered by the State Legislature. Until then, the Governor has convened the Legislature for a special session to handle the task of appropriating the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.
We will continue to monitor the activities of the legislature and alert pre-k advocates about opportunities to take action. For now, please join the Alabama School Readiness Alliance in thanking Governor Ivey for prioritizing pre-k. Click here to send an email message to the Governor.
January 19, 2022 By Allison Muhlendorf
