Kansas City, Missouri – Mayor Sly James will host a series of town hall meetings to talk with residents about the importance of early childhood education in Kansas City. Residents will have the opportunity to learn more about the plan to ensure every child in Kansas City has access to quality pre-k education, and to ask questions about the community-driven plan.
“Children who attend a quality pre-k program are more likely to have positive outcomes in both school and adulthood. Unfortunately, only a fraction of Kansas City’s children have access to these types of programs,” said Mayor Sly James. “Quality pre-K programs result in many benefits for our community, including lower crime rates and a larger skilled workforce. I look forward to talking with residents about how we can make sure every child in Kansas City has access to quality pre-k education that will help them get ready to succeed in school and beyond.”
Mayor James, in partnership with community, business, civic, and education leaders, has developed a plan for universal pre-K that will help to increase the number of high-quality childcare providers, while also supporting high-quality programs that already exist.
The pre-K town halls will be moderated by American Public Square founder Allan Katz (Jan. 22 and Feb. 19) and Truman Medical Center CEO/President Charlie Shields (Feb. 5). Mayor James will present the plan and take questions with the assistance of early childhood education expert Jovanna Rohs of Mid America Regional Council (MARC). MARC is a neutral party and has operated the Metropolitan Council on Early Learning for over 25 years.
There will be media availability with Mayor James immediately following the program. However, time during the town hall will be reserved for questions from residents.
SCHEDULE
| Date | Time | Location |
| 1/22/19 | 6-7 p.m. | Avila University, Whitfield Ctr., 11901 Wornall Rd, KCMO 64145, MAP |
| 2/5/19 | 6-7 p.m. | Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, Board Rm., 30 W Pershing Rd #301, KCMO 64108, MAP |
| 2/19/19 | 6-7 p.m. | MCC-Maple Woods, Campus Ctr. , 1299, 2601 NE Barry Rd, KCMO 64156, MAP |
Registration is not required for residents to attend the event. However, seating will be limited.
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