This year, the Seattle Family, Education, Preschool, and Promise (FEPP) Levy is up for renewal. This means that on Election Day, Seattle voters will have the chance to vote whether or not to extend this levy for 7 more years. This levy funds many critical early learning programs throughout the city, most notably the Seattle Preschool Program (SPP).
BrightSpark urges voters to vote “YES” on Proposal 1!
What is the Seattle Preschool Program?
SPP is an affordable preschool option for low-income families across the city. Its nationally-accredited curriculum prepares children for kindergarten while providing resources and specialized coaching to participating providers.
“As a provider and teacher, my experience with the SPP program has been extremely enriching. This support has allowed me to offer families in my community a high-quality preschool program that is accessible to all, regardless of their economic situation,” said one SPP partner provider.
“Thanks to the SPP grant, I am able to maintain a trained staff, quality materials, and an environment that inspires curiosity and a love of learning. Being able to provide these opportunities to families is one of the reasons I love what I do.”
If this proposal is passed, the Seattle Preschool Program will be renewed and expanded for the next 7 years. If this levy is not renewed, this program will be permanently dissolved and over 3,000 children will lose access to this high-quality early learning opportunity.
Change is Possible: New Mexico Universalizes Child Care
While advocating for early learning can sometimes feel like fighting an uphill battle, it is important to remember that our efforts get results and change is possible!
Last week, New Mexico passed a bill that will offer free child care for all families, regardless of income starting on November 1. New Mexico families are expected to save an average of over $12,000 annually per child through this initiative.
What does this mean for Washington? For those of us in Washington state, the message is clear: Radical systemic change is possible through mobilization and advocacy! If other states can take such large strides towards an equitable early learning system, so can we.
Are you registered to vote?
Election day is coming up fast! Make sure you’re ready to head to the polls and vote.