Durham County proposed budget has increased focus on pre-K education
The proposed budget from Durham County Manager funds more slots and classrooms for 4-year-olds.
Posted — UpdatedYour browser doesn't support HTML5 video.
Durham County is considering allocating more money to universal pre-K. To fund that increase, property taxes could go up by 3 cents.
Henry Cruz is a sports fan, particularly a soccer fan. His mother said he's signed up for pre-K next year.
"For him, he needs to learn by himself how to be independent," said Estefani Cruz.
She also wants to ensure her son can be bilingual.
"I speak english, but I don't speak it to him, so it's important for him to start learning," Estefani said.
"Not just the academic, but the social, emotional impact as well is huge," Townsend said. "To regulate their emotions, solving problems, critical thinking - all of that occurs here."
"The 180 days of this school year, it makes a huge difference," Townsend said. "It's like night and day, seeing kids being able to operate independently, put things away, open their milk cartons, walk down the hallway. it's worth it."
The proposed budget also includes pay increases for county and school employees.
Related Topics
• Credits
Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.