COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KOAA) — Colorado’s Universal Preschool Program ( UPK ) is now in its third year, and families are moving quickly to secure spots for their children.

Applications opened on December 9, and in just two days, 935 families in El Paso County had already applied, according to Joint Initiatives, the group coordinating UPK locally. Officials say the early rush is setting the tone for another high-demand year.

Universal Pre-K guarantees at least 15 hours of free preschool per week for children in the year before kindergarten. Some families qualify for 30 hours based on income.

“If a family is living at or below the federal poverty level, they’re automatically eligible for 30 hours if they submit their income documentation,” said Noreen Landis-Tyson, consultant for Joi

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