Preschool Advantage Announces Record Enrollment of 125 Children for the 2026-2027 School Year Largest Class in Organization’s 31-Year History Reflects Growing Community Need and Strong Donor Support

Largest Class in Organization’s 31-Year History Reflects Growing Community Need and Strong Donor Support

MORRISTOWN, N.J. - Preschool Advantage, the Morristown-based nonprofit that funds preschool tuition for local families in need, proudly announced the placement of 125 children in 29 high-quality preschool programs throughout Morris and Somerset counties for the 2026-2027 academic year. This marks the largest class in the organization’s history and reflects its continued commitment to expanding access to early childhood education for local families. Preschool Advantage provides tuition assistance for 3- and 4-year-old children whose families find it challenging to pay the high cost of preschool. As New Jersey has not achieved the goal of universal preschool education for all children, families continue to face complex challenges as they navigate making decisions about how they can access and/or pay to place their children in early education programs.​

Through partnerships with 32 high-quality preschool providers across Morris and Somerset counties, the organization helps children gain a strong educational foundation during their most critical years of development. “As the cost of preschool continues to rise and universal preschool remains unavailable in many communities, families are increasingly challenged to find affordable early education options,” said Dr. Bette M. Simmons, President of the Preschool Advantage Board of Trustees. “This milestone demonstrates what can be achieved when dedicated volunteers, generous donors, preschool partners and communities come together to invest in the future of our children.”

The average cost of preschool in New Jersey now approaches $20,000, creating significant financial challenges for many working families. Recognizing this growing need, The Preschool Advantage Board of Trustees implemented a strategic growth initiative in 2024 to increase the number of children served.

Following the successful placement of more than 100 children in 2024 and 118 children in 2025, the organization set a new enrollment target, based on increasing family demand and expanding donor support.

In 2026, Preschool Advantage received a record number of applications, and the Board approved the additional funds for 125 children. “This accomplishment belongs to our entire community,” Simmons said. “Businesses, foundations, community organizations, preschool partners, volunteers, and individual donors have embraced the belief that every child deserves access to a strong start in life. Their support is opening the doors of opportunity for children which helping families achieve greater financial stability.”

About Preschool Advantage
​Preschool Advantage is a nonprofit organization that provides tuition assistance for families who find the cost challenging. Since 1995, the organization has provided families with tuition assistance for quality preschool education and has paid over 1600 tuitions. Preschool Advantage will continue to accept applications until the end of the summer. Additional information about the organization can be found at www.preschooladvantage.org, or by calling (973) 532-2501.