US EditionWA to Add Thousands of Free Preschool Slots with Ballmer Group Funding
Ballmer Group commits up to $170 million annually for 10 years to fund 10,000 new free preschool seats yearly for low-income Washington families, expanding ECEAP capacity.
- On Wednesday, Governor Bob Ferguson announced Ballmer Group Philanthropy pledged about $170 million annually for 10 years to fund up to 10,000 new ECEAP seats per year.
- Earlier this year, Washington state lawmakers cut $70 million from ECEAP, leading to about 2,000 fewer slots and delays in entitlement expansion, according to officials.
- Legislators must create a dedicated state account to accept the funds, while DCYF will coordinate with the state's ECEAP association to target providers, and Ballmer Group said donations will tie to seat counts and state rate increases.
- At least 2,000 new slots will be offered in the first year, with the earliest seats likely in 2026-27; officials warned expansion will take time and funding may not last a decade.
- The pledge would inject more than $1 billion into ECEAP program, which currently serves roughly 14,000 children, but providers warn staffing shortages and turnover could limit seat availability.
17 Articles
17 Articles
Former Microsoft CEO’s philanthropy will donate up to $170M a year for free preschool in WA
The Ballmer Group on Wednesday committed hundreds of millions of dollars for free preschool in Washington, a massive philanthropic contribution amid state budget cuts and federal rollbacks.
FOX 28 Spokane
KHQ Right NowOlympia partnership expands preschool access for low-income families
OLYMPIA, Wash. – A new partnership announced in Olympia is set to expand preschool access for low-income families, promising more space for children in need. The Ballmer Group Philanthropy (BGP), led by former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, has committed to funding preschool spots for 10,000 kids per year over the next 10 years. This commitment
The Center Square
Everett PostBallmer Group announces up to $1.7 billion for early education programs in WA
(The Center Square) – Washington state Gov. Bob Ferguson on Wednesday announced a huge philanthropic commitment to the state’s Early Childhood Education and Assessment Program, with the Ballmer Group committed
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