Cincinnati Preschool Promise plans $15M levy decision ahead of November 2025 vote

In a pivotal meeting held on February 10, 2025, the Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS) Board confronted a pressing financial decision regarding the future of preschool funding. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as board members discussed the implications of an upcoming levy set for November 2025, which could significantly impact early childhood education in the district.

The board revisited a levy first passed in February 2016, which allocated $48 million for various educational initiatives, including a crucial $15 million earmarked for the expansion of preschool programs. As the discussion unfolded, it became clear that the initial budget had been outpaced by the growing demand for preschool services. The current combined budget for preschool had reached approximately $20 million, relying heavily on unspent funds from previous years. However, these reserves are projected to be depleted by 2026, raising concerns about the sustainability of preschool programs.

Board members faced a critical choice: should they maintain the $15 million funding level for preschool, potentially limiting growth, or should they consider increasing the budget to meet the rising needs of families in the community? The decision carries significant weight, as it will shape the future of early education in Cincinnati and determine how effectively the district can respond to the increasing demand for preschool services.

As the meeting concluded, the board was left to ponder the implications of their decision, not just for the immediate future but for the long-term educational landscape of Cincinnati. The outcome of the levy in November will be a defining moment for the district, with the potential to either bolster or hinder the growth of essential preschool programs that serve the youngest learners in the community.