The 21st was joined by the state superintendent to talk about the funding and how to apply for it, as well as the importance of preschool in early childhood education.

Day care has been a struggle throughout the pandemic — from safety concerns to a shortage of workers.The 21st was joined by three leaders who work in child care and preschool around the state. 

A report released Tuesday by the Illinois State Board of Education shows most kindergarteners in the state start school unprepared.

Both the Urbana and Champaign school districts will receive additional state funding over the next five years to support their preschool programs.