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Michigan’s push for universal PreK enrollment is paying off, with a record number of children enrolled and families saving an estimated $10,000 annually.
Michigan Free PreK Enrollment Hits Historic High, Saving Families Money
LANSING, Mich. – Michigan families are seeing significant financial relief as Michigan’s Free PreK for All initiative reaches record enrollment levels, with 56% of four-year-olds now enrolled in free, high-quality preschool programs. Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the milestone during a visit to Livonia Early Childhood Center, emphasizing both the economic and educational benefits of early childhood education.
“This school year, a record number of children are enrolled in no-cost, high-quality PreK programs across the state, saving Michigan families a total of $475 million,” said Governor Whitmer. “PreK for All gives kids the strong foundation they need to thrive in kindergarten while also saving families $10,000 a year in child care costs.”
The initiative, launched in 2023, has driven a 24% increase in enrollment for Michigan’s primary public preschool program, the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP). Families interested in enrolling their children for the 2025-26 school year can now do so through MiPreKforAll.org.
Early Education’s Broader Impact on Families and the Economy
Beyond preparing children for kindergarten, free PreK programs have a wider economic impact. Parents who might otherwise struggle with costly childcare can now re-enter the workforce or pursue education.
“As a dad of three, I know just how important it is for all our kids to get a great start so they can build a bright future,” said Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist. “Our bipartisan investments in PreK have saved families money and ensured every four-year-old has access to the high-quality early education they deserve.”
A recent economic analysis found that for every $1 spent on PreK for All, the state gains $1.72 in economic benefits through workforce participation and future educational achievements.
Educators Champion the Benefits of Early Learning
Educational leaders across the state have lauded the initiative’s success in improving kindergarten readiness and providing equitable access to early learning.
Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP, emphasized the dual benefits of early childhood education: “PreK not only benefits 4-year-olds, it also benefits our economy as families can work or go to school knowing their children are safe and learning.”
Schools like Livonia Public Schools have seen firsthand the impact of these investments. “Our high-quality educators give our youngest learners a strong PreK education, helping children to be successful in kindergarten and beyond,” said Andrea Oquist, Superintendent of Livonia Public Schools. “We are dedicated to providing developmentally appropriate, activity-based programs in our state-of-the-art Early Childhood Center.”
How Michigan Families Can Enroll
More than 47,500 children are currently enrolled in GSRP programs across Michigan, and the state hopes to further expand its reach in the coming years. Enrollment is now open for the 2025-26 school year, with eligibility extending to all families, regardless of income. Programs prioritize those most in need but are open to all.
Families interested in signing up can visit MiPreKforAll.org to explore available programs.
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