IPS Free Pre-K Program Coming to An End

The district announced June 3 that it will implement a sliding payment scale charging up to $150 a week for families who don’t qualify for federal assistance. That fee is on par with rates charged in neighboring school districts.

The change comes amid rising costs and state lawmakers’ decision last budget session to further limit access to Indiana’s pre-K voucher program for low-income families. The district has also supported the program through federal funds — including some that are no longer available.

Improving access to district-run pre-K was a promise of IPS’ ongoing Rebuilding Stronger reorganization plan, which seeks to restructure school assignments and create equity among district programs. Expanded access to high quality preschool has also been seen as a way to combat low reading scores — an ongoing priority of state education officials.

“We understand the frustration and challenges that this information may cause,” the district wrote on its website. “This was not an easy decision to make, but one thing will always hold true: Our commitment to our students and families will always remain at the forefront — even as we navigate these recent legislative changes and their financial impact on our district.”

See the full article for Mirror Indy.

Photo: Gautam Arora