Early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong success, and Multnomah County is leading the charge with its ambitious Preschool for All program. Approved by voters in 2020, this initiative promises free, high-quality preschool for every 3- and 4-year-old by 2030, removing financial barriers and prioritizing equity.
Origins and Voter Mandate
The story begins with Measure 26-214, passed overwhelmingly by 64% of Multnomah County voters on November 3, 2020. This ballot measure directed the County Department of Human Services to administer a groundbreaking program connecting families to free preschool slots. Unlike means-tested programs, Preschool for All eliminates income requirements, ensuring broad access regardless of family finances.
Funding comes from a targeted personal income tax on high earners—individuals with Oregon taxable income over $125,000 or joint filers above $200,000—making it a progressive model that supports community-wide benefits. This approach has enabled steady expansion: from 728 seats in 2022-23 to over 3,800 for 2025-26, with full universal availability slated for 2030.
Who Qualifies and How to Apply
Eligibility is straightforward and inclusive. Children must be 3 or 4 years old by September 1 of the preschool year and reside with a parent or legal guardian in Multnomah County. No income verification is needed, opening doors for all families.
The application process for the 2026-2027 school year is now open via the official portal. Families select and rank up to six preferred providers, with placements based on availability. A waitlist option exists, and Family Navigators offer personalized support. Note that Portland Public Schools and KairosPDX handle applications separately.
- Key Steps: Research providers using the searchable map tool.
- Schedule tours to visit sites.
- Submit preferences during the open window.
- Await match notification or waitlist status.
This family-centered system empowers parents to choose environments that best fit their child’s needs, from home-based settings to center-based programs.
Program Expansion and Growth Trajectory
Preschool for All is scaling methodically. Starting small to ensure quality, it prioritizes families facing the greatest barriers—such as Black, Indigenous, and other families of color—while building capacity countywide. By 2030, every interested family will secure a spot, marking a historic shift in early education access.
| School Year | Seats Funded | Key Milestone |
|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | 728 | Program launch |
| 2025-26 | 3,800+ | Rapid expansion phase |
| 2030 | Universal | Full access for all |
This table illustrates the program’s impressive growth, backed by voter-approved funding and strategic partnerships.
High Standards for Providers
To join Preschool for All, providers must meet rigorous criteria ensuring top-tier education. Requirements include an active Oregon child care license, at least three years of operational experience, and qualified staff: lead teachers at Step 7 on the Oregon Registry Online (ORO) or equivalent, assistants at Step 4 (with waivers for growth plans).
Programs operate five days a week, offering at least four seats for home-based or 10 per classroom for centers. Emphasis is on inclusivity—no suspensions or expulsions—culturally responsive curricula aligned with Oregon’s Early Learning Guidelines, free meals, and support for children with disabilities.
Financial incentives draw providers: monthly tuition payments of $16,536 to $23,592 per child annually (2024-25 rates), plus startup funds and coaching for quality improvement. This sustains operations while prioritizing fair staff wages and benefits.
Benefits for Children and Families
Participation yields profound advantages. High-quality preschool boosts cognitive, social, and emotional development, preparing children for kindergarten success. Inclusive environments foster belonging, with specific outreach to underserved communities.
Families gain relief from childcare costs, flexibility in choosing settings (centers, homes, schools, Head Starts), and culturally affirming experiences. Free meals and snacks address nutrition, while data-driven improvements ensure ongoing excellence.
- Child Outcomes: Enhanced school readiness, better language skills, improved self-regulation.
- Family Gains: Economic stability, community connections, empowered choices.
- Equity Focus: Prioritizing historically marginalized groups.
Distinct from State Programs
Preschool for All stands apart from Oregon’s Preschool Promise, a state initiative for families at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. While Promise operates via Early Learning Hubs like Early Learning Multnomah, PFA’s universal, county-funded model complements it without overlap restrictions.
This mixed-delivery ecosystem—spanning public schools, nonprofits, and private centers—maximizes options and coverage.
Real-World Impact Stories
Providers like those partnering with Build Up Oregon highlight transformation. Leslee Barnes, director of Multnomah County’s Preschool & Early Learning Division, emphasizes inclusivity: programs must meet families “where they are.” One center expanded from startup to serving dozens, using PFA funds for supplies and staff training, creating safe spaces for diverse learners.
Families report eased burdens; a working parent noted, “It allowed me to focus on my job without daycare worries, knowing my child was thriving.” These anecdotes underscore the program’s ripple effects on workforce participation and child welfare.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Scaling to universal access involves hurdles like provider recruitment and facility growth, but investments in coaching and funding mitigate these. Prioritizing equity ensures no child is left behind as seats multiply.
By 2030, Multnomah County could pioneer a national model, proving voter-driven policy can deliver equitable education. Ongoing applications for 2026-27 signal momentum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an income limit for Preschool for All?
No, eligibility is based solely on age (3-4 by September 1) and county residency—no income requirements apply.
When does the 2026-2027 application open?
It’s open now! Use the portal to explore providers and apply.
Can I choose my preferred preschool?
Yes, rank up to six options; placements prioritize your choices based on availability.
What if my child has special needs?
All PFA sites fully include children with disabilities, with required supports in place.
How is the program funded?
A tax on high-income earners (over $125k individual/$200k joint) funds it sustainably.
Are meals provided?
Yes, free meals and snacks are standard at all participating sites.
References
- Preschool for All – Multnomah County — Multnomah County. 2026. https://multco.us/programs/preschool-all
- For Families | Preschool for All – Multnomah County — Multnomah County. 2026. https://multco.us/info/families-preschool-all
- Becoming a Preschool For All Provider in Multnomah County — Build Up Oregon. 2024. https://www.builduporegon.org/blog/joining-the-preschool-for-all
- Preschool for All FAQs – Multnomah County — Multnomah County. 2026. https://multco.us/info/preschool-all-faqs
- Preschool Promise | Early Learning Multnomah — Early Learning Multnomah. 2026. https://www.earlylearningmultnomah.org/preschool-promise
- Preschool Promise : Programs – Oregon.gov — State of Oregon. 2026. https://www.oregon.gov/delc/programs/pages/preschool-promise.aspx
