The 21st Show

Illinois aims to reduce preschool deserts with new grants

 
Tony Sanders began his term as state superintendent at the end of February. Previously, he worked in the Elgin public school district as the superintendent.

Tony Sanders began his term as state superintendent at the end of February. Previously, he worked in the Elgin public school district as the superintendent.

A new grant program from the lllinois State Board of Education and Gov. J.B. Pritzker is aimed at decreasing preschool deserts around the state. According to ISBE, preschool deserts are zones of the state where there aren't enough publicly funded seats in preschools for at least 80% of 3- and 4-year-old children from low-income families. 

The 21st was joined by the state superintendent to talk about the funding and how to apply for it, as well as the importance of preschool in early childhood education.

GUEST: 

Tony Sanders

State Superintendent, Illinois State Board of Education

 

 

Prepared for web by Owen Henderson

Help shape our coverage on The 21st by joining our texting group and answering weekly questions. To join, text “TALK” to 217-803-0730 or sign up with your phone number below: