Gov. Andy Beshear unveiled his two-year budget proposal on Dec. 18 ahead of the 2024 legislative session. Kentucky Interim Education Commissioner Robin Fields Kinney issued the following statement:

“Investing in education is the most significant contribution to our state’s future. It guarantees that the upcoming generation is well-equipped to enter the workforce, fostering economic growth and job development in Kentucky. Education plays a crucial role in securing a high quality of life and prosperity for both our current and future citizens. 

“We are very pleased with the prioritization of education funding in Gov. Andy Beshear’s two-year budget proposal. It reflects the importance of investing in education and includes all of the Kentucky Department of Education’s and the Kentucky Board of Education’s priorities, which include: increasing the Supporting Education Excellence in Kentucky (SEEK) base amount; increasing the amount for SEEK transportation; funding universal preschool; providing supports for the education workforce; providing school improvement services to more schools through the Kentucky Educational Recovery Fund; more funding for Kentucky Education Technology System (KETS); and funding for Read to Succeed. 

“While the governor’s outlined priorities underscore the significance of education, it is crucial to bear in mind that this is the beginning of the budgetary journey. We look forward to working with the governor and the legislature in the months ahead as the biennial budget is discussed and finalized.”