Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear (D) has launched a pilot program for full-day, universal pre-K for 4-year-olds in Rockcastle and Robertson counties, two counties, to be implemented for the 2026-2027 school year. The pilot program will be funded by redirecting appropriated economic development dollars from underperforming workforce programs. The announcement follows a June executive order establishing an advisory committee to study existing state-funded universal prekindergarten models in other states and make policy recommendations about how to implement a voluntary program in Kentucky. The governor's office also announced that the Kentucky Early Learning Center will open its doors in Frankfort in September to provide discounted childcare for executive branch employees.