DELAWARE – As Delaware lawmakers move closer to finalizing the state budget, advocates for early childhood education are urging elected officials to make young learners a top priority. The Delaware Association for the Education of Young Children is requesting an 8% increase in state funding for early learning programs.
The group argues that additional resources are necessary to ensure fair access to quality education during a child’s critical early years. Leaders within the organization say they were encouraged by Governor Matt Meyer’s recent emphasis on childcare during his state of the state address.
Still, they stress that meaningful progress requires more than words and that budget decisions will ultimately reflect the administration’s true priorities. In response, the governor’s office said Meyer understands the value of accessible childcare and reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting families and early educators. Officials noted that the state remains focused on working with providers to strengthen educational opportunities for children across Delaware. For now, advocates remain cautiously optimistic as they watch the legislative process unfold.
