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The program helps expand access to quality PreK providers by giving eligible families a stipend for the school year
Miami Beach has become the only municipality in the state of Florida to provide an incentive to families so their children have access to quality Prekindergarten (PreK) programs. This opportunity will allow Miami Beach families to access up to $2,700 for the 2022-2023 school year, with winners being selected via a randomized lottery.
A lottery was held on Thursday, Dec. 9, 2021 to randomly place resident applicants in numerical order for a stipend receipt redeemable for next school year. Of the 160 residents who submitted applications, 92 have been selected to receive funding. Results from the lottery can be viewed on the city’s website.
“The quality of life of all our residents, especially our youngest is a top priority,” said Commissioner Mark Samuelian. “Studies have shown that early education helps with the development of a child’s social, emotional, and cognitive needs. I strongly support helping our Miami Beach residents provide their children with the proper care and education. The expansion of this crucial program will ensure that even more families are able to provide educational support for their young children.”
On Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2021, the City of Miami Beach Commission voted unanimously to make the PreK Program for Miami Beach residents a permanent program, with a funding allocation of up to $3,000 per child, for up to 158 families in the 2023-2024 school year.
“By making the PreK pilot program permanent, we are sending a clear message that Miami Beach prioritizes early childhood education,” added Commissioner Ricky Arriola. “We are serious about competing to keep families on the beach as well as welcoming new families to our community, and now this is part of the standard benefits package we offer our residents.”
The PreK website can be accessed at www.miamibeachfl.gov/prek/ and provides an overview of the program, lottery results and additional provider information. There are currently 18 prekindergarten provider partners, comprised of both public and private entities, who are registered to join the city in its effort to expand access to quality early childhood education.
This program supports the City of Miami Beach’s vision of being a prosperous city with a special flavor of arts, culture, wellness, education, and business, with a special objective of being known for (PreK-12) educational excellence.
