Portland's Preschool for All advances universal education, supports local preschool success

Portland's Preschool for All initiative, launched to provide universal free preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds, is making progress in its implementation, acclaimed as a "national model" by experts. Tram Gonzalez, owner of Color Wings Preschool in Portland, benefited significantly from the program, which covered tuition for ten out of fifteen children enrolled and provided startup grants and reliable reimbursements. "Preschool for All has opened up so many doors for families," Gonzalez said.

After Portland voters approved the initiative in November 2020, it was recognized for its careful planning, considering potential impacts on the community's early childhood system. GG Weisenfeld from the National Institute for Early Education Research noted, "They did not cut corners. They’re still pushing for high quality. They’re still pushing for equity. It’s impressive."

The initiative is funded by an income tax on high-earning residents, providing a stable financial foundation, crucial for the program's longevity. However, some Portlanders express impatience with the gradual rollout, as acknowledged by Leslee Barnes, director of Multnomah County’s Preschool and Early Learning Division. "To the average consumer, or even politicians, they don’t really understand. ‘So what are you guys doing over there? Why doesn’t everybody who wants one have a preschool slot?’” Barnes stated.

Despite these sentiments, Barnes is confident in the program's progress, noting it funds at least 2,225 preschool seats, exceeding its goal for this school year. By 2030, the target is to create 11,000 slots to accommodate all interested children in the county.

Preschool for All has also improved conditions for teachers, aligning wages and benefits with those in K-12 education. The minimum wage for teachers involved in the program is set to rise significantly, with Barnes highlighting the importance of competitive benefits to retain educators. Gonzalez's experience reflects these improvements: "It’s really nice what I can provide to staff, partnering with Preschool for All," she shared.

With reliable administration from the county, Gonzalez plans to expand her preschool further. "I have so many great things to say about it," Gonzalez expressed, acknowledging the initiative's crucial role in her success, despite recognizing areas for improvement. Her dream to open her own program was realized with the substantial support from Preschool for All, setting an example for other communities.