Resources for parents wanting to send keiki to preschool

KAILUA (KHON2) — Access to early childhood education or getting Keiki into preschools is not easy, especially as more and more preschools shut down.

“You’re on waitlists forever. We were on this waitlist before we even moved to the island. That’s how hard it was to get in,” stated a concerned parent.

Families with children attending Kailua Baptist Preschool are scrambling after the church decided to shut down its preschool. According to state officials, this is part of a troubling trend due to the high cost of running childcare facilities and a workforce shortage.

“When we found out they were closing, there was just so much emotion,” said another parent. “Blindsided, sad, devastated for the community, just confused.”

The state is working to increase the availability of preschool classrooms. Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke reported that 44 new preschool classrooms have opened across the state. Funding is also available to help existing private childcare facilities remain operational.

“It doesn’t really make sense if we add some and then lose some,” said Lt. Governor Luke. “We want to make sure that we fill the gap.”

Additionally, $50 million in subsidies is available to families seeking private childcare options. This funding helps ensure that parents have access to childcare, particularly for those who face restrictions with the public preschool model due to location, work hours, income, and other factors.

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The Ready Keiki program, initiated by the Lt. Governor’s office, aims to prepare all children for kindergarten while supporting economic stability for parents. Those needing assistance with preschool costs or other resources can apply here.