II. Expand quality pre-kindergarten programs to all three- and four-year-old children in the District of Columbia

As the nation’s capital, the District Columbia has the potential to be both an example and a leader in the growing pre-k movement – particularly with regards to creating a system where all children, including children of color, enter school ready to learn.  

In June 2006, NBCDI launched the public education and advocacy campaign, Pre-K for All DC, to ensure every three and four year old has access to high-quality pre-kindergarten programs. During the 2006 elections, Pre-K for All DC successfully persuaded every candidate for mayor and council chair to pledge their support for universal, quality pre-k. After the election, Pre-K for All DC led Mayor-elect Adrian Fenty’s transition work group on early education. The group’s recommendations constructed the framework for delivering comprehensive early education to all three and four year olds. The framework has become the basis for the mayor’s multi-year plan on early childhood education.

In 2007, Pre-K for All DC will continue its successful public education and advocacy efforts by calling for legislative and budgetary support for universal pre-kindergarten. The campaign will also seek to expand the capacity of local advocacy groups to support pre-k expansion after the campaign comes to a successful conclusion in 2008. 

Download the full version here.

Public Policy Home

NBCDI Home