Colorado's ambitious Universal Preschool Program opened its enrollment to families for the 2026-27 school year today, echoing a significant step forward in accessible early education. The initiative provides up to 15 hours of tuition-free preschool every week, addressing affordability for families and setting a strong educational foundation for children. According to the Colorado Governor's Office, since its inception in 2023, the program has served over 87,000 children and has been a financial boon for families, helping them save an average of $6,300 per year.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis heralded the program, "Families across the state are saving more than $6,300 per year on free preschool and starting today Coloradans can sign their children up for the coming school year." The statement obtained by the Colorado Governor's Office emphasized the ease and impact of the program, "Free preschool is serving tens of thousands of children across our state and building a strong foundation for success. It’s quick and easy, so sign up today." Since the program's start, Colorado has climbed dramatically in national preschool enrollment rankings, now sitting in the third spot.
Enrollment is available on the official program website, where families can browse over 2,000 licensed providers, submit their application by the set deadlines, and await matchup results. After receiving a match, the process is straightforward: families either accept and proceed to finalize enrollment with the provider or decline and consider other options. Dr. Lisa Roy, Executive Director of the CDEC, told the Colorado Governor's Office, "Investing in high-quality early education is one of the most effective ways we can support children, families, and the long-term strength of our state."
