Through a new website released today that invites parents, pre-K providers and the public at large, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney is asking for the opinions and thoughts of residents in expanding quality pre-K in Philadelphia. 

Visitors to the site, Ready. Set. Pre-K, are asked to submit their name, address, email address and phone number. The site also asks for information on their specific area of interest, which can relate to volunteering, enrolling your child in a pre-K program or serving as a pre-K provider. The Mayor’s Office of Education staff will then follow-up with individuals in the coming weeks. 

“I’m calling on parents, caregivers, pre-K providers, and the public to get involved in quality pre-K expansion,” Kenney said in a press release.  “Our administration is committed to increasing access to affordable, quality pre-K, but we can’t do it alone.  We need everyone’s help.”

The unveiling of Ready. Set. Pre-K comes a day after Kenney submitted his proposed budget and Five-Year Plan to City Council. He is calling for an investment of $256 million dollars over the next five years, in combination with state and federal funding, to reach 25,000 quality pre-K seats in Philadelphia.

“This site will be an important tool for the city to start building a list, engaging the public, and assessing the needs and interest in expanded quality pre-K,” Chief Education Officer Otis Hackney added.  “I urge everyone to visit the site, sign up, and lend support to this crucial effort.”