Mayor Laura White-Brown Appointed to Governor’s “Pre-K for All” Advisory Committee

Morehead Mayor Laura White-Brown has been appointed by Governor Andy Beshear to serve on the newly established Team Kentucky Pre-K for All Advisory Committee, a 28-member board tasked with helping guide the Commonwealth’s push toward universal pre-kindergarten access for every 4-year-old in the state.

The “Pre-K for All” initiative aims to expand early childhood education access, improve long-term academic outcomes, and strengthen Kentucky’s workforce.

“I’m honored to represent Morehead and Eastern Kentucky on this important advisory committee,” said Mayor White-Brown. “High-quality Pre-K is not just an education issue — it’s an economic one. Access to early learning gives every child a stronger start while supporting working families and helping our communities grow.”

The initiative is backed by research showing that early learning improves kindergarten readiness and long-term success. According to KY Stats, 53.8% of Kentucky children currently enter kindergarten unprepared. The Governor’s plan seeks to close this gap by ensuring pre-K opportunities are available regardless of income or geography.

Mayor White-Brown’s appointment reinforces the importance of including rural and Appalachian voices in shaping statewide education policy. Her leadership in Morehead has focused on community development, family support, and workforce investment — all critical elements of the “Pre-K for All” mission.

“As a mayor and a parent, I know the value of strong starts,” Mayor White-Brown added. “This initiative can be transformative — not just for our children, but for the families, employers, and future economy of Kentucky.”

The Pre-K for All Advisory Committee will help develop implementation strategies, advise on funding mechanisms, and ensure local perspectives are included in statewide planning. Kentucky joins 18 other states that currently offer some form of universal pre-K access, positioning the Commonwealth to improve both its educational outcomes and economic competitiveness.

For more information about the Pre-K for All initiative visit- https://prek4all.ky.gov/