Curt Hanson

Friday, June 18, 2010

Fairfield, Iowa – The Pekin School District has been awarded a $63,536 state grant this week to provide preschool for 18 local children. The grant program was established by the Legislature with a goal that nearly every Iowa four year old will have access to quality, affordable preschool.

“Quality preschool is key to boosting achievement in k-12 schools and ensuring we have a skilled workforce. With support from educators and business leaders, this is a smart move for Iowa because we know preschool improves the chances of success for our kids in school, reduces crime, and saves the state money,” said State Representative Curt Hanson of Fairfield.

Awarded by the Iowa Department of Education, the grants announced this month will provide preschool to an additional 4,500 four year olds beginning this fall bring the total children served to over 21,000. The preschool program is voluntary and it does not compete with existing private or public preschools.

All school districts receiving grants this year will receive funds again in the future through the preschool aid formula. By the 2011 school year, every four year old in Iowa who wants a quality preschool experience will have access.