Illinois expands preschool seats to 11,000 under Smart Start program, aiming to cover 80% of working families by 2027.

Illinois's Smart Start program, launched by Governor JB Pritzker, added 5,150 new preschool seats for low-income families in its second year, bringing the total to 11,000 since 2023. The FY 2025 budget includes $32.2 million to expand preschool access for 3- and 4-year-olds and to support educators. The program aims to provide preschool for 80% of working families by 2027.

2 months ago
9 Articles