The Maryland Department of Education's Education Transformation and Accountability Committee convened on February 15, 2024, to discuss significant changes to the state's pre-kindergarten program, particularly the introduction of a sliding scale for tuition based on family income. This initiative aims to enhance access to high-quality full-day pre-kindergarten for all children, aligning with the goals of the Blueprint for Maryland's Future legislation.

Dr. Cook presented an overview of the proposed Pre K Sliding Scale guidance, detailing how families will be categorized into three tiers based on their federal poverty level. Families in Tier 1, which includes those earning up to 300% of the federal poverty level or experiencing homelessness, will not incur any costs for pre-kindergarten. This tier ensures that all children from low-income backgrounds can access early education without financial barriers.

For families in Tier 2, with incomes ranging from 300% to 600% of the federal poverty level, a subsidized sliding scale will determine their contribution towards pre-kindergarten costs. This approach aims to make early education more affordable for middle-income families while still providing support.

Tier 3 encompasses families earning above 600% of the federal poverty level, who will be responsible for the full cost of pre-kindergarten. This tier structure is designed to balance the financial responsibilities among families while promoting equitable access to early education.

The committee also discussed the importance of blending and braiding local, state, and federal funding to support these initiatives effectively. By leveraging various funding sources, the Maryland Department of Education aims to ensure that all children, regardless of their family's financial situation, have the opportunity to benefit from quality pre-kindergarten programs.

As Maryland moves forward with these changes, the focus remains on expanding educational access and improving outcomes for young learners, ultimately contributing to the state's broader educational goals. The committee's discussions highlight a commitment to addressing the needs of families and ensuring that every child has a strong start in their educational journey.