GLASGOW, Ky. — Glasgow Independent Schools will expand access to preschool opportunities after being selected to participate in Kentucky’s Pre-K Pilot Program, Gov. Andy Beshear announced Tuesday.

The program, which will begin during the 2026-2027 school year, will bring full-day pre-K programming to Glasgow Independent Schools as part of a statewide effort to expand early childhood education access.

Glasgow joins Franklin County Schools, Robertson County Schools and Rockcastle County Schools as the first four districts selected for the pilot program.

The announcement came after the Glasgow Independent Schools Board of Education approved participation in the initiative Monday.

“I’m honored and excited that Glasgow Independent School District has been selected to lead the way on this initiative,” said Superintendent Chad Muhlenkamp. “In Kentucky right now, fewer than half of the kids come to kindergarten ready to learn. Preschool is the single most effective way for every child to get the start they need.”

Muhlenkamp said early childhood education helps children build foundational skills before entering kindergarten.

“We know from study after study, and our own personal experience, that the first five years are crucial,” he said. “Programs like this help all students have the reading, math and social skills they need to start school. This initiative will put a stop to that gap before it begins.”

Beshear said the pilot programs are part of a broader effort to expand access to pre-K across Kentucky while helping families and employers.

“Kentucky’s children deserve the very best start, and Pre-K for All will deliver that and more by also helping parents save money, boosting our workforce and supporting businesses,” Beshear said.

The full-day pilot programs are intended to serve as an initial step toward expanding access to pre-K statewide. The programs will use curriculum beginning in the 2026-2027 school year.

Beshear launched the Team Kentucky Pre-K Pilot Program in May, initially selecting Robertson and Rockcastle counties. The expansion to Glasgow and Franklin County brings the number of participating districts to four.

The governor’s office said the initiative has received support from education leaders, business owners, chambers of commerce and local officials across Kentucky as lawmakers consider future investments in early childhood education.

Muhlenkamp said the program will help ensure students enter school with the skills needed to succeed.

“Preschool is the single most effective way for every child to get the start they need,” he said.

The governor’s office said more information about the initiative is available through the state’s Pre-K for All website.