Paul Forlenza - Public Policy Advisor
 Former Democratic Candidate for Vermont Senate - 2004

Voluntary, Universal Preschool
We need to create and fund a voluntary, universal preschool program for our pre-K children in Vermont.




My son's first day at the Lincoln Cooperative Preschool, 1982




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While there is no typical definition of "universal preschool", there are common characteristics across many states that include:

• supported by state funds

• focused on early learning for school success or school readiness

• designed to deliver group learning experiences
aimed at preschool aged children (under 5 years old, usually 3-and 4-year olds)

• expanded target population of children -open to all 3-and/or 4 year-olds, without regard to income or any other criteria except age

• allow a range of early education providers to receive preschool/Pre-K funds, including public schools, child care centers, Head Start programs, and nursery schools.