New York City Invests $80 Million in Early Childhood Education
– New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced an $80 million investment to bolster early childhood education and expand access to childcare for families across the five boroughs. The funding, allocated within the Fiscal Year 2026 Adopted Budget, aims to address critical needs in early learning and development, particularly for children with disabilities and those from low-income households.
The investment breaks down into two key areas: $70 million will be directed towards supporting pre-K special education students, providing crucial related services such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy. This funding is intended to reduce wait times for families and double the capacity of Preschool Regional Assessment Centers, improving access to early interventions.
The remaining $10 million will launch a pioneering childcare pilot program focused on infants and toddlers aged 0-2 from low-income families. This program, a first for a major U.S. City, will be administered by New York City Public Schools and seeks to expand access to infant and toddler care in targeted communities. Outreach to childcare providers will begin this month to assess interest and capacity.
The announcement builds upon the Adams administration’s existing commitment to universal 3-K and pre-K access citywide. The administration has previously highlighted the FY 2026 Executive Budget as the “Best Budget Ever,” and this additional funding further solidifies that commitment.
The initiative has garnered support from various stakeholders. New York State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud, chair of the Committee on Social Services, described the investment as “a game-changer,” emphasizing its potential impact on early childhood education and support for children with special needs.
Education advocates have also expressed relief at the increased funding. Kim Sweet of Advocates for Children of New York stated, “We appreciate the addition of $70 million for preschool special education – funding that is urgently needed to provide services like speech therapy and counseling.”
The city’s goal is to move closer to universal childcare, potentially positioning New York City as the first in the nation to offer such a service. The success of the pilot program for 0-2 year-olds will be a key factor in determining the feasibility of broader implementation.
Mayor Adams’ office stated that the investment reflects a dedication to making New York City the best place to raise a family. The funding is intended to address systemic barriers faced by working-class families and children with disabilities, ensuring equitable access to quality early education.
The city is actively working to expand learning opportunities for the youngest New Yorkers, recognizing the critical importance of early childhood development. The $80 million investment represents a significant step towards achieving that goal.
