Governor Reynolds Commits $5M To Expand Preschool, Childcare Programs

(Des Moines) — Governor Kim Reynolds is committing five million dollars to expand childcare and preschool program partnerships throughout Iowa.  Reynolds says the additional grant funding will help address gaps in childcare.  This follows her introduction of the Continuum of Care grant earlier this year, which offers up to 300-thousand-dollars over three years to support partnerships between preschools and childcare centers.  The program aims to enhance school readiness through supportive staffing, extending hours of operation, and offering transportation options.  Over 120 applications were submitted for the first round of grants this summer, with the second round of grants expected to yield similar numbers.