Multnomah County's preschool program under fire amid $485 million in unused funds, sparks national education debate
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek is calling for a sweeping overhaul of Multnomah County's Preschool for All (PFA) program, citing severe implementation flaws and mounting public frustration.
Her criticism, coming despite support for the program's vision, raises urgent questions about the effective use of public funds earmarked for early education in the US.
As reported by KPTV, Governor Kotek stated the program has not delivered on its promise to families, particularly low-income households still struggling to access affordable preschool. 'Kids that should be eligible are not getting a seat in the classroom,' she said, adding that 'the scales are out of balance.'
Kotek's call for reform is seen by many as a pivotal moment in the broader US debate over universal early education.
Low participation and unspent millions fuel concern
Launched to provide free, high-quality preschool to all 3- and 4-year-olds in Multnomah County, PFA was designed as a flagship model for universal early education. However, only 11% of the county's potential licensed preschool sites are currently participating in the program.
Many others are either overwhelmed with paperwork or have chosen not to join due to unclear or burdensome administrative requirements.
Compounding the issue is the staggering $485 million in unspent funds allocated for the program, as revealed by state data and referenced by Governor Kotek in her statement, according to KPTV. The funds, which were expected to support rapid expansion and increased access, have instead raised questions about oversight and efficiency.
Governor proposes tax structure and provider access reforms
In response, Kotek has recommended major adjustments to the program's underlying tax structure and improvements in how providers are onboarded. According to KPTV, she emphasized the need to streamline administrative processes and ensure that no currently enrolled child loses access to services during the transition.
Kotek described her position not as cynical but 'a position of optimism,' insisting that reform can strengthen the program's foundation.
'We can serve children and build prosperity at the same time,' she told KPTV.
County leadership pushes back, citing success and community support
Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson pushed back strongly on the governor's criticisms. As quoted by KPTV, she described it as 'disappointing that the Governor is doubling down on undercutting a program that is successfully serving thousands of young children.'
She added that PFA is helping to build the early education workforce and enabling thousands of parents to work.
Pederson also noted that over 70,000 letters have been sent to leaders in protest of the proposed changes, and reaffirmed that any future steps 'will include the Board of County Commissioners and the community,' according to KPTV.
Statewide implications and growing calls for a national model
Governor Kotek's call for change goes beyond Multnomah County. As reported by KPTV, she also advocated for a broader, statewide plan to address Oregon's growing childcare crisis, stating, 'The County must walk and chew gum at the same time.' The debate has now attracted attention nationwide, with education advocates pointing to the PFA program's struggles as emblematic of challenges facing early education systems across the US.
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