HISTORIC WIN FOR EARLY EDUCATION: 'PRE-K FOR ALL' PASSES, EXPANDING ACCESS FOR YOUNG LEARNERS

Local policy experts note improvements in Pre-K landscape with new analysis. 

(Memphis, TN) – Following unanimous approval by both the Shelby County Government and the City of Memphis, a revised joint ordinance has been passed to provide a free Pre-K program for all three and four-year-olds in Memphis and Shelby County.

What is Pre-K For All? Previously, all publicly funded Pre-K programs in Memphis and Shelby County required income eligibility for enrollment.

Pre-K for All is the first program in Memphis and Shelby County to provide access to FREE Pre-K for all three and four-year-olds, regardless of income, overtime. This initiative aims to empower parents and guardians to pursue work or education without the burden of costly childcare, confident that their children are enrolled in a high-quality program. 

First 8 Memphis (F8M) is the organization spearheading this historic win. F8M’s goal is to support and continue to build Memphis and Shelby County’s early care and education system. First 8 Memphis Executive Director Kandace Thomas emphasized the importance of early care and education: “Nearly every study shows that parents and caregivers know that children who receive Pre-K have a far greater chance of academic and social-emotional gains in school than those who do not." 

Since 2019, F8M has partnered with the City of Memphis and Shelby County Government to support, coordinate, and administer funding for a comprehensive, universal needs-based Pre-K program. Last year, F8M administered over $16 million to 15 Operators across Shelby County (view 2023-2024 annual Report), resulting in 94% enrollment and 87% attendance by the end of the school year. With Pre-K for All, F8M aims to build on this success, increasing the City and County’s joint annual investment to reach a high-quality Pre-K program for all young learners.  

“This is a transformative investment for children in Shelby County. Every child deserves the best start in life, and with Pre-K for All, we are making that a reality," said County Chairman Michael Whaley.

"Through this joint ordinance, we are committing to making high-quality Pre-K accessible so that all families have the support they need and our children enter Kindergarten ready to succeed,” said Councilwoman Swearengen-Washington.

Pre-K for All will roll out in phases, beginning in Fall 2026. Families can expect access to high-quality Pre-K programs, enhanced teacher training, and greater support for early learning centers. Although seating may be limited, First 8 Memphis is working to continue to expand and add more Pre-K seats each year. 

For families interested in enrolling a child in Pre-K:

Visit PreKMemphis.com to find a list of current providers. Then contact the desired program to learn more details directly from the Operator. If you need more assistance, reach out to prek@first8memphis.org.

For childcare centers interested in offering free Pre-K:

To participate in the First 8 Memphis Pre-K for All program, Shelby County Pre-K centers will be required to actively apply. F8M will share an RFP for the 26-27 school year in the fall of 2026. 

For more information about Pre-K for All and First 8 Memphis, visit first8memphis.org/prek-for-all. 

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First 8 Memphis (F8M) works to ensure every child in Memphis and Shelby County can reach their full potential by building a strong start during the first 8 years of life. We are leaders, conveners, and advocates working to implement, scale, and improve the early care and education system for young children during their most critical developmental ages. Success in the first eight years leads to success for a lifetime. Learn more at www.first8memphis.org.