In Oregon, Multnomah County recently announced that its “Preschool for All” program is growing this year, with leaders announcing that 3,800 children will be served through the free education initiative in the next school year. It’s a significant increase from the 2,200 or so slots that were available during the 2024-2025 school year.
Preschool for All is a program funded by an income tax on Multnomah County’s highest earners: 1.5% on income above $125,000 dollars for individuals or income above $200,000 for joint filers. It was passed by voters in 2020 and is a remarkable example of funding early education through local initiative.