Massachusetts

Overview of Pre-K Program-Universal Pre-Kindergarten Pilot Grant Program (UPK)

All children at participating programs are eligible for UPK funding, however additional funding is provided for children living at or below 85% SMI.
Grants are provided to public school pre-kindergarten programs, family child care providers, Head Start Agencies and private child care centers.
Programs which receive UPK funds must provide access to full-day, full-year services, conduct specific child assessments, and comply with Early Childhood Program Standards and the Guidelines for Preschool Learning Experiences (We have pdf files for these documents).

Program funds preschool for typically developing preschool-aged children in order to match the number of special needs children being served in inclusion programs.
Program is open to children without disabilities.
All grantees are located in public schools.

1985 Grant 391 program is launched.
2003 An Act Establishing Early Education for All is filed in Massachusetts legislature.
2004 Department of Early Education and Care is created. It is an independent board which will oversee the creation of a system of high-quality early education and care for all in Massachusetts.
2006 An Act Establishing Early Education for All is unanimously passed by both the House and Senate, but is vetoed by the Governor. Funding is increased for the Universal Pre-Kindergarten pilot programs.
2007 Universal Pre-Kindergarten Pilot Grant Program launched through a state funding initiative.
2009 Universal Pre-K and Grant 391 combined provide services to 10,797 children statewide.