Governor Kay Ivey on Wednesday marked a milestone for Alabama’s early education system, announcing that the state’s First Class Pre-K program has achieved 20 consecutive years of meeting all national quality benchmarks.
The recognition comes from the latest State of Preschool Yearbook issued by the National Institute for Early Education Research, which evaluates state-funded prekindergarten programs across the country. Alabama remains the only state to meet all 10 of the institute’s research-based standards for two straight decades.
“This 20-year milestone is more than a recognition. It is a legacy,” Ivey said. “For two decades, our state has set the standard for high-quality pre-k, and that success reflects the dedication of our educators, families and leaders who believe in giving every child a strong start.”
The report measures programs based on enrollment, funding and quality indicators. Alabama is among a small number of states meeting all benchmarks in the current year, continuing a streak unmatched nationally.
State officials said the achievement comes alongside significant expansion. Over the past decade, enrollment in First Class Pre-K has grown from fewer than 8,000 students in the 2014–15 school year to more than 24,000 children today, with more than 1,500 classrooms operating across all 67 counties.
Ami Brooks, secretary of the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education, said the recognition reflects long-term collaboration across the state.
“This recognition is a reflection of 20 years of commitment and collaboration from so many across Alabama,” Brooks said. “From educators in the classroom to leaders at the Capitol, we’ve stayed focused on what matters most ensuring every child has a strong foundation.”
Officials said maintaining quality standards while expanding access has been a defining feature of the program. Research cited by the state indicates that students who participate in First Class Pre-K show stronger academic and developmental outcomes over time.
The program has become a cornerstone of Alabama’s broader education strategy, with state leaders continuing to emphasize early childhood learning as a key investment in long-term student success.
