Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist visited Ferry Elementary School in Grosse Pointe Woods to promote Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s proposal for universal pre-kindergarten classes for all 4-year-olds. During his visit, Gilchrist interacted with preschoolers like Corey Pomilee, who led a train full of superheroes around the classroom. The proposal aims to provide free pre-kindergarten for every 4-year-old in Michigan by 2026, two years earlier than planned, potentially saving families $10,000 per child annually.
Despite the goal, the Democrat-controlled House and Senate have not included funding for universal preschool in their preliminary budget blueprints. However, both chambers have proposed increasing income thresholds for free participation in the state’s Great Start Readiness Program. The push is to enroll 75% of preschoolers into publicly funded programs, with Michigan currently only serving 41% of eligible preschool-age children.
Gilchrist emphasized the importance of early childhood education, stating that children benefit from being in a preschool environment with caring adults who help them reach developmental milestones. Whitmer’s proposal includes funding to serve more preschoolers, increase per-child allocations, open new classrooms in underserved areas, and continue higher payments for student transportation.
While supporters acknowledge challenges such as finding qualified teachers and classroom space, efforts are underway to build partnerships with child care centers and schools to expand access to preschool programs. The ultimate goal is to provide a strong foundation for children’s social and emotional development, setting them up for success in kindergarten and beyond.