Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage renewed for another six years

(August 7, 2024) – Voters in Kent County approved a six-year renewal for the Ready by Five Early Childhood millage in yesterday’s Primary Election. Preliminary election results show nearly 120,000 voters submitted ballots, supporting the millage renewal 59% to 41%.

The Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage, administered by First Steps Kent, was approved at a 0.25 mill and is effective January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2030. The renewal continues the original millage passed by voters in 2018 that expires at the end of the year.

The millage is expected to generate $8.8 million in the first year and will cost the owner of a $300,000 home $37.50 annually, or $3.13 per month.

“First Steps Kent is grateful to the voters and taxpayers of Kent County for once again affirming their commitment to the health, well-being, and school readiness of our young children,” said First Steps Kent President Jennifer Headley-Nordman. “Our organization is proud to administer the Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage. We look forward to supporting six more years of early childhood investments locally.”

Ready by Five provides dedicated funding for programs to improve childhood health, learning, and well-being. Last year, more than 14,000 young children and their families participated, while thousands more received information about early childhood.

Funded programs have a proven track record, including improved third-grade reading and math scores, reduction in preterm and low birthweight babies, and early identification of children with a potential delay or disability.

Investments in young children pay off with healthier babies, improved family relationships and parenting skills, improved academic outcomes and high school graduation rates, reduced criminal behavior and interactions with law enforcement, and higher likelihood of adults in the workforce.

Ready by Five funds community-based organizations that provide early childhood programs, including:

  • Prenatal support
  • Developmental screenings to identify potential delays and disabilities
  • Assistance navigating the early childhood system
  • Home visits that support caregivers
  • Play and learn groups, which help develop language and learning skills
  • Elimination of hazardous substances, like lead, from homes
  • Intensive therapy for children dealing with behavioral health issues

“This historic millage renewal provides families reassurance that our littlest citizens, in every ZIP code throughout the county, will continue to benefit from programs that support whole child wellness and development,” Headley-Nordman said.

Learn more about the Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage Renewal.

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