preschool

At the end of 2024, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education Advancement and Potential (MiLEAP) announced that the state of Michigan had the highest pre-kindergarten enrollment numbers over the past decade and an increase of over 4,000 students from 2023 figures. The Ypsilanti Community Schools saw a 15% increase in pre-kindergarten enrollment. Rylee Barnsdale checked in with Washtenaw Intermediate School District executive director of early childhood, Edward Manuszak, to discuss the increase and what it weans to the community on this week's "On the Ground Ypsi."

Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s administration rolled out its $83.5 billion proposed budget Wednesday for the coming fiscal year. We have more from Rick Pluta.

A new report on children in Michigan is revealing a mixed bag when it comes to measures of child well-being. Colin Jackson has more.

The Ypsilanti Community Schools will embrace outdoor education at its early learning centers. WEMU’s Taylor Bowie has more on how the district hopes to utilize the two new playgrounds they plan to dedicate this afternoon.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer put economic development, free community college tuition, and some love for the Detroit Lions front and center as she delivered her sixth State of the State address Wednesday at the state Capitol. We have more from Rick Pluta.

On a Labor Day edition of "Washtenaw United," we’re taking a look at an institution that made it possible for all of Rosie the Riveters to work at the Willow Run Bomber Plant in World War II. Back then, it was called Perry Nursery School. Now, it is known as Foundations Preschool of Washtenaw County. It stills primarily serves single and working mothers and is about to celebrate its 90th anniversary. WEMU's David Fair with the school's executive director, Sandy Williams, about developing the workforce of the future.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order Wednesday creating a new state department focused on getting more kids into pre-school and more adults to graduate from college or a career-training program. Rick Pluta reports.

Governor Whitmer’s proposal to make free universal childcare available for all four-year olds in the state is being looked at as a ‘game changer’ in Washtenaw County. WEMU’s Cathy Shafran has more.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered her new budget proposal Wednesday to the Legislature. We have more from Rick Pluta.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer will present her budget proposal today for the coming fiscal year. The governor says it will include a focus on services for families and children. We have more from Rick Pluta.