On July 19, 2021,  Governor Tom Wolf was joined by advocates and legislative members to celebrate the $30 million increase in early childhood education funding in the state budget. This new funding will allow an additional 3,270 children to enroll in the state’s high-quality early learning programs.

Pennsylvania administers two early childhood learning programs: Pre-K Counts and Head Start Supplemental Assistance (Head Start). Both programs ensure access to high-quality early learning programs for low-income families with children. Together with $145 million in funding increases secured over the past six years for the programs, this year’s $30 million investment will increase funding for Pre-K Counts by 149% and funding for Head Start by 77% since 2014-15.

The $30 million early childhood education increase includes:

• $25 million increase for Pre-K Counts, equating to an additional 2,800 children.
• $5 million for Head Start Supplemental Assistance Program, equating to an additional 470 children.

“A solid educational foundation during the early years of a child’s life prepares them for lifelong learning opportunities, which is why investing in high-quality early education is critical,” said Education Secretary Noe Ortega.

“This is an investment in our children and our education system, but it is also an investment in a better, more prosperous future for all Pennsylvanians,” said Gov. Wolf.

To read the press release, click here.