STATEHOUSE (June 11, 2021) – Eligible 4-year-olds heading into pre-K during the 2021-2022 school year can now apply for On My Way Pre-K grants, according to State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis).
Established in 2014 as a pilot program and expanded statewide in 2019 through laws authored by Behning, On My Way Pre-K provides grants to low-income families to enroll their children in local, high-quality programs. He said early learning programs are critical to a child’s future academic success.
“Indiana’s pre-K program can help jumpstart a child’s education and set them on the path for a bright future,” said Behning, chair of the House Education Committee. “Not only are preschoolers learning their ABCs and 123s, but they are also learning how to follow directions, work with others and share. These skills provide a strong foundation for students as they enter kindergarten and throughout the rest of their lives.”
To qualify for a grant for the upcoming school year, a child must be 4 years old by Aug. 1, 2021, and plan to start kindergarten in the 2022-2023 school year. They must also live in a household with an income below 127% of the federal poverty level and have a parent or guardian working, going to school, attending job training or searching for employment.
Behning said a limited number of grants will also be available for 4 year olds who live in a household with an income up to 185% of the federal poverty level with a parent or guardian who meets employment requirements, or who receives Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income Benefits.
Since 2015, Behning said nearly 14,000 Hoosier children received a grant to attend pre-school through the On My Way Pre-K program. Families can apply or learn more by visiting OnMyWayPreK.org or calling 800-299-1627.
