Cherlynn Stevenson on Universal Pre-K

Cherlynn believes that every child deserves a strong start, and every family deserves real support.

Right now, too many Kentucky families are stuck on waitlists, paying more for child care than they can afford, or forced to make impossible choices between work and caring for their children. That’s not sustainable for families, and it’s not good for our economy.

Cherlynn supports a federal partnership with states to establish universal, voluntary Pre-K for every 3- and 4-year-old in America. So that every child, no matter their zip code, has access to early learning opportunities that set them up for success in school and in life.

Practical, Proven, and Focused on Families

1. Make Pre-K Truly Accessible
Cherlynn will fight to ensure that Pre-K programs are available in every community, urban and rural, by investing in public schools, community-based providers, and child care centers that families already trust.

2. Support Working Families
Universal Pre-K will lower costs for parents and make it easier for families to stay in the workforce, especially for mothers who are too often pushed out because child care is unaffordable or unavailable.

3. Invest in Educators
A strong system depends on strong teachers. Cherlynn supports better pay, training, and support for early childhood educators. So we can recruit and retain the workforce families rely on.

4. Partner with Kentucky, Not Mandate from Washington
Cherlynn believes the federal government should provide resources and standards, while giving states like Kentucky the flexibility to implement programs that meet local needs.

Why It Matters

Universal Pre-K isn’t just about education. It’s about economic stability, workforce growth, and giving every child a fair shot.

It’s about making sure a parent in Lexington, Richmond, or rural Eastern Kentucky doesn’t have to choose between a paycheck and their child’s future.

Cherlynn’s Bottom Line

“This is common sense. When we invest in our kids early, we set them and our communities up for success. Universal Pre-K is one of the smartest investments we can make for Kentucky families, and I’m ready to fight for it in Congress.”

– Chelrynn Stevenson