Local Vegas

Transforming Early Education: $13.3 Million for Local Families

United Way of Southern Nevada has launched a $13.3 million initiative to provide free preschool access for 1,592 children through the Nevada Ready! State Pre-K program. The funding aims to eliminate financial barriers to quality education and strengthen early learning, enabling families to focus on stability while their children gain essential skills for future success.

Newsdesk R. Michael July 16, 2026 2 min read

LAS VEGAS — Hundreds of Southern Nevada families will have a new opportunity to prepare their children for academic success this school year thanks to a major investment in early childhood education.

United Way of Southern Nevada (UWSN), in partnership with the Nevada Department of Education, announced the availability of $13.3 million in scholarships through the Nevada Ready! State Pre-K program. The funding will provide free preschool access for 1,592 children across Clark County through nearly 50 participating early education centers.

The initiative aims to remove financial barriers that often prevent families from enrolling children in quality preschool programs. As a result, more students will enter kindergarten with the skills and confidence needed to succeed.

“Access to quality early education creates opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom,” said Samuel Rudd, President and CEO of United Way of Southern Nevada. “It lays the foundation for lifelong success, empowering children to reach their potential and helping families achieve greater stability.”

Building a stronger future through education

Research consistently shows that children who attend high-quality preschool programs perform better academically and develop stronger social skills. Therefore, expanding access to early learning remains a key priority for education leaders across Nevada.

This year’s scholarship funding will be distributed through qualified preschool centers that meet standards established by the Nevada Department of Education’s Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS). Additionally, childcare providers will help identify and refer eligible families who may benefit from the program.

The scholarships will cover preschool tuition for qualifying families, allowing parents to focus on work, career development and family stability while their children receive a strong educational foundation.

Dozens of local centers participating

Families throughout Las Vegas, Henderson and North Las Vegas will have access to scholarship opportunities through participating centers including Acelero Learning, Baby University, Children’s Learn & Play, Creative Kids, La Petite Academy, Learning Jungle, Milestone Academy, Sunrise Children, YMCA locations and many others.

Because the program partners with nearly 50 centers across Southern Nevada, families can find options close to home, making enrollment more convenient and accessible.

The broad network of providers ensures that families from a variety of communities can take advantage of the opportunity.

How families can apply

Parents and guardians interested in the Nevada Ready! State Pre-K scholarships can visit the United Way of Southern Nevada website to review eligibility requirements and complete an interest form.

Afterward, UWSN will connect families with participating preschool centers that best meet their needs.

The organization believes that every child deserves access to quality education regardless of income. Consequently, the scholarship program continues to serve as a vital resource for families seeking affordable educational opportunities.

As the school year approaches, UWSN hopes the funding will help hundreds of children begin their educational journey on the right path while strengthening families and the broader Southern Nevada community.