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 Reps. Dale DeVon (R-Granger) and Jake Teshka (R-South Bend).
Established in 2014 as a pilot program and expanded statewide in 2019 through laws enacted by the Indiana General Assembly, On My Way Pre-K provides grants to low-income families to enroll their children in local, high-quality programs. DeVon said early learning programs are critical to a child's future academic success.
"Without any form of early education, children may start grade school significantly behind their peers and struggle to catch up," DeVon said. "High-quality preschool programs can have a dramatic effect on these students by jumpstarting their learning."
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.
Teshka 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 and have a parent or guardian who meets employment requirements, or who receives Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income Benefits.
"Kids need to be actively engaged to learn early on," said Teshka, a member of the House Education Committee. "No child should be kept out of a quality education because their family can't afford it. On My Way Pre-K helps our youngest Hoosiers get into programs that can keep them on track with their peers."
Since 2015, Teshka said nearly 14,000 Hoosier children received a grant to attend preschool through the On My Way Pre-K program. Families can apply or learn more by visiting OnMyWayPreK.org or calling 800-299-1627.
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State Rep. Dale DeVon (R-Granger) represents House District 5,
which includes portions of St. Joseph County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Jake Teshka (R-South Bend) represents House District 7,
which includes the majority of St. Joseph County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
