On My Way Pre-K reaches record enrollment following expanded eligibility
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Indiana’s On My Way Pre-K program has reached record enrollment.
State officials announced the news last week saying the program has served more than 7,500 children this year — up 21% from last year.
On My Way Pre-K is administered by the Family and Social Services Administration’s Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning. The program seeks to place 4-year-olds from low income families in free, high-quality pre-kindergarten programs approved of by the state agency.
On My Way Pre-K is the only state-sponsored pre-K program. Its officials work with more than 1,000 pre-K programs in homes, centers, schools and religious settings.
State lawmakers expanded eligibility for the program this year. Beginning in August, families making up to 150% of the federal poverty level — up from 127% — are eligible for On My Way Pre-K. A family of four, for example, could qualify if the family’s household income is $45,000 a year or less.
“We are celebrating supporting an additional 1,300 children this year, giving them an equal opportunity to learn and grow alongside their peers,” Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning Director Courtney Penn said in the news release. “I am proud of our team’s commitment to reach kids in every county, ensuring that as many young learners as possible are better prepared for elementary school and beyond.”
The On My Way Pre-K program has served more than 28,000 children since it began as a five-county pilot in 2015. The program grew to support 20 counties in 2017 and went statewide in 2019.
Though school has already started, the program is still enrolling students and On My Way Pre-K staff continue to solicit more partners to provide high-quality pre-K programming.
More information about the program is available online at OnMyWayPreK.org. Families can search for approved pre-K providers at www.ChildCareFinder.IN.gov or can call 800-299-1627 for assistance from an early learning specialist.