Pre-K 4 SA Aims to Triple Partner Network in San Antonio

Pre-K 4 SA currently partners with approximately 90 childcare providers in San Antonio. The organization intends to increase that number to 300 partners in the coming years.

The initiative, which was first approved by voters in 2012 through a one-eighth-cent sales tax, is on the November ballot for a 20-year reauthorization. It was previously reauthorized for an eight-year period in 2020. The program operates four education centers designed to serve as demonstration sites for high-quality early learning.

Sarah Baray, the initiative’s chief executive officer, stated that the centers are meant to show what is possible in early childhood education. She noted that the goal is to help other providers replicate those programs and practices. This approach ensures that families have access to quality early learning regardless of which provider they choose.

The four centers include large windows that allow current and aspiring educators to observe classrooms. The South Education Center features three observation rooms that look directly into classrooms. Baray explained that individuals earning their child development associate’s certification use these spaces to see how theory applies in practice. They also use the opportunity to speak directly with teachers.

Pre-K 4 SA leads the San Antonio Shared Services Alliance, a network of childcare providers that share resources and collaborate on operations. The alliance began in 2019. Baray said that in the early days, many providers viewed the initiative and one another as competitors. Through ongoing conversations, participants came to see each other as part of a larger solution rather than rivals.

Edna Bermea, director and owner of Imagination Child Development Center, credited the alliance with helping her expand her business. She visited and learned from other centers, which inspired her to purchase land and construct a new building. This expansion increased her enrollment capacity from 42 to 259 children. Bermea noted that the center has maintained a four-star Texas Rising Star quality rating since 2020.

Bermea also highlighted the support provided for staff certification. The alliance has helped many teachers earn their Child Development Associate certification. She described the availability of director coaches and teacher coaches as key resources. When licensing issues arise, she said she can reach out to other alliance members for guidance on resolving the matter.

Elaine Mendoza, tri-chair of the Renew Pre-K 4 SA campaign and chair of the board for Pre-K 4 SA, said the program does not aim to build a center on every corner. She emphasized that the four demonstration sites serve a specific purpose. The goal is to lift the entire community by working with the whole ecosystem to align early childhood education efforts.

Baray echoed this sentiment, stating that the authorization is about San Antonio becoming the first city in the country to make early learning and care affordable and accessible through public-private partnerships. The initiative seeks to work across the system to ensure strong outcomes for families.

The November ballot will determine the future funding for these efforts. Voters will decide whether to authorize the program for another 20 years. This decision will affect the initiative’s ability to continue its current operations and expansion plans.