Tammy Exum

The Early Childhood Education Endowment Fund is here—Connecticut’s first permanent savings account to sustainably fund early childhood education.

 

• $300 million initial investment to grow over time and strengthen child care statewide
• Launch of Early Start CT, combining multiple programs into one, making access simpler and more equitable
• $36 million in the first year (started July 2025) to expand and improve the child care system
• 1,000+ new spaces added by June 2026
• Higher pay & better benefits for early childhood educators
• Facility improvements funded for providers
• Health insurance study underway for child care workers

 

• By 2027, families earning under $100k will get free Early Start CT care
• Families earning over $100k will have costs capped at 7% of income
• More spaces and programs through a competitive process
• Expanded pre-K from part-day to full-day, with inclusive environments for all children

 

 

This is just the beginning-a long-term investment in affordability, quality, and equity for Connecticut’s youngest learners.