National report flunks state's preschool system, despite spending

Washington’s access to quality preschool services falls below many other states, only serving 16% of 4-year-olds and 8% of 3-year-olds, a new national report found.

The National Institute for Early Education Research released its annual preschool report in April and found Washington’s preschool access ranked 33rd for 4-year-olds and 17th for 3-year-olds.

The report also found that despite its low rankings for access, Washington scores fairly well for funding for the child-care sector, ranking eighth for state spending. But despite the spending, families still struggle to find care.

“Washington...