Applying for Philadelphia’s free, high-quality pre-kindergarten (pre-K) programs is about to get much easier for families, thanks to a new initiative announced by Mayor Cherelle Parker. At the same time, Mayor Parker revealed a plan to retain early childhood teachers by offering signing and retention bonuses. These moves aim to increase pre-K enrollment and strengthen Philly’s early education programs. In this article we talk about How is the Philadelphia Mayor simplifying the pre-K application process and offering bonuses to early childhood teachers.
Simplified Pre-K Application Portal Launching June 3rd
Starting June 3, 2024, Philadelphia parents and caregivers will use one streamlined application portal to sign up children ages 3-4 for the city’s free public pre-K options. This replaces the previous complex and confusing process that deterred participation.
Mayor Parker stated the new unified application system will make enrolling in public pre-K “easier for busy families.” She emphasized the importance of “eliminating barriers” to these critical early education programs.
Previously, each pre-K provider had separate applications and enrollment policies. Families struggled to navigate the decentralized and often duplicative paperwork. Many lacked awareness of all their options.
The new Common Application will centralize the process so families can easily compare choices. Providers will access one system to reach interested families. Mayor Parker described this as “a smart way to get as many children as possible through the door.”
$3 Million Investment in Early Childhood Teacher Retention
Simultaneously, Mayor Parker announced a $3 million allocation for signing and retention bonuses to retain pre-K teachers. Lead teachers can receive up to $2,000, while assistant teachers qualify for up to $1,500. Recipients must commit to staying in their roles for the 2022-2023 school year.
This incentive aims to maintain staff capacity amidst a severe shortage of early childhood educators. Parker noted “we really do care about early childhood education providers” and recognize teachers as “true, prepared educators” rather than just babysitters.
An estimated 50% of Pennsylvania’s pre-K teachers may leave their jobs within five years. Reasons include low pay, limited benefits, stressful working conditions and lack of advancement opportunities. The problem worsened during the pandemic.
First Up, an early education advocacy group, commended Mayor Parker’s focus on retaining existing staff over expanding seats. Policy manager Elizabeth Farwell Ozer said “any money towards expansion will be futile” without enough teachers for current enrollment.
In her budget proposal this year, Mayor Parker recommended flat funding for Philly’s pre-K system rather than expanded seats. Her administration emphasized the urgent need to invest in the existing workforce first.
The Importance of Early Education in Philadelphia
Former Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney made universal pre-K access a cornerstone of his administration. But he recognized achieving this “legacy initiative” depends on recruitment and retention of qualified teachers.
Currently, Philadelphia serves around 17,000 three- and four-year-olds in free public pre-K programs. Participants gain socialization, emotional regulation and kindergarten readiness skills. This paves the way for long-term academic and career success.
For families, public pre-K enables parents to work while children learn in a safe, nurturing environment. Teachers provide the hands-on experiences critical for early brain development. Many families credit these programs for getting their children off to a strong start.
Mayor Parker’s simplified application portal and teacher incentives demonstrate her commitment to strengthening Philadelphia’s pre-K infrastructure. By breaking down barriers to enrollment and retaining talented teachers, her administration invests in the city’s future workforce. I sincerely hope you find this “How is the Philadelphia Mayor simplifying the pre-K application process and offering bonuses to early childhood teachers?” article helpful.
