OLYMPIA, Wash. – A new partnership announced in Olympia is set to expand preschool access for low-income families, promising more space for children in need.

The Ballmer Group Philanthropy (BGP), led by former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, has committed to funding preschool spots for 10,000 kids per year over the next 10 years. This commitment adds more than $1 billion in funding to the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP), which currently serves over 14,000 children.

During the announcement, an educational director from a longstanding preschool in Western Washington expressed excitement about the new funding. She highlighted that this support comes at a crucial time, as their Head Start funding has yet to return.

Governor Bob Ferguson was present at the announcement.

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