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Our Founding Story

The story of Denver Preschool Program is one of commitment to Denver’s youngest learners, community collaboration, continuous learning, and evolution.

Three preschool children and teacher outside painting

DPP's Story Highlights

2006

First sales tax approved by voters to fund Denver Preschool Program.

2014

Voters approve tax increase to create year-round tuition credits and a reserve for economic uncertainty.

2020

Pilot Denver Preschool Program pilots DPP Scholarship, Preschool for 3’s, and financial stipends for providers during the pandemic.

2022

Denver Preschool Program selected as Denver's Local Coordinating Organization (LCO) for Colorado Universal Preschool (UPK ).

2023

Denver voters approve reauthorization of Denver Preschool Program indefinitely.

1990-2006

Vision, Establishment, and Growth

Early leaders launch measures to bring attention to early childhood education and build support for public funding. A sales tax was eventually passed in 2006.

Teacher helping preschool girl with blocks

2006-2016

Program Structure, Governance, and Operations

Denver Preschool Program is established as an independent nonprofit and works to create the right infrastructure to support successful programs like tuition credits, quality improvement, and community outreach.

Four preschool-aged Latina girls
Young boy with arms raised in front of preschool class

2016-2022

Innovation, Legislation, and Addressing Community Needs

To meet the evolving needs of the Denver community, Denver Preschool Program addresses gaps in the current early childhood education system with innovative funding, pilot programs, workforce support, and legislative advocacy.

Black preschool girl making crafts

2022 and Beyond

Thinking Differently and Leading Confidently

With the expansion of tuition credits to 3-year olds, the success of pilot programs, and the start of Colorado Universal Preschool, Denver Preschool Program is poised for an exciting shift in the prioritization of quality early childhood education.

Preschool boy smiling at camera with girl in background
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