Gov. Beshear pushing Universal Pre-K

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Governor Andy Beshear is launching a statewide push to expand universal pre-K access, aiming to prepare every 4-year-old in Kentucky for kindergarten.

During a stop in Lexington on Tuesday, Beshear joined educators, parents, and business leaders to unveil the “Pre-K for All” initiative. According to the governor, nearly 54% of Kentucky children enter school unprepared, which he says impacts not only education but also long-term economic growth.

“This is a step we must take,” Beshear said in a statement during the event.

The initiative also aims to expand child care access and support working families, while helping to grow Kentucky’s workforce. Beshear says early childhood education can boost parental income and provide a long-term return on investment for the state.