Governor Kay Ivey announced Wednesday that Alabama will add 64 new First Class Pre-K classrooms for the 2026-27 school year, expanding access to the state’s nationally recognized early childhood education program for families across Alabama.

The new classrooms, supported by the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education, will help meet growing demand for high-quality pre-kindergarten opportunities in communities throughout the state.

“Providing Alabama’s children with a strong start remains one of our state’s most important investments,” said Governor Ivey. “These new First Class Pre-K classrooms will help more children enter kindergarten ready to learn and succeed, while strengthening the foundation for Alabama’s future.”

The expansion comes as Alabama continues to receive national recognition for the quality of its pre-kindergarten program.

Earlier this year, the National Institute for Early Education Research named Alabama’s First Class Pre-K program the nation’s highest-quality state-funded pre-kindergarten program for the 20th consecutive year. Alabama remains the only state in the country to earn that distinction.

“Alabama didn’t become the nation’s highest-quality state-funded pre-k program for 20 consecutive years by accident,” said ADECE Secretary Ami Brooks. “This milestone reflects decades of commitment from educators, communities and state leaders who have never wavered in their belief that our youngest learners deserve the very best start. Every new classroom we add is an investment in a child’s future and a continuation of Alabama’s legacy as a national leader in early childhood education.”

State officials said the recognition reflects Alabama’s long-term focus on quality, accountability and access to early learning opportunities. Research has consistently shown that children who participate in high-quality pre-kindergarten programs enter school better prepared to learn and often experience long-term academic and developmental benefits.

The 64 new classrooms will begin serving children during the 2026-27 school year. The additions include classrooms in public schools, community-based organizations and childcare centers across Alabama, reflecting the state’s continued effort to expand access to high-quality early learning opportunities regardless of where families live.

The new classrooms will be located in communities throughout the state, expanding access to Alabama’s nationally recognized First Class Pre-K program and helping meet growing demand for early learning opportunities among Alabama families.

Families interested in learning more about Alabama’s First Class Pre-K program can find additional information through the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].