SYLACAUGA, Ala. – Indian Valley Elementary School in Sylacauga has been selected to receive a new First Class Pre-K classroom as part of a statewide expansion announced on Wednesday, June 24 by Gov. Kay Ivey.
The addition is among 64 new First Class Pre-K classrooms approved for the 2026-27 school year through the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education (ADECE). The new classroom at Indian Valley Elementary School will expand access to early childhood education opportunities for children and families.
“Providing Alabama’s children with a strong start remains one of our state’s most important investments,” Gov. Ivey said in a statement. “These new First Class Pre-K classrooms will help more children enter Kindergarten ready to learn and succeed, while strengthening the foundation for Alabama’s future.”
ADECE Secretary Ami Brooks said Alabama’s nationally recognized Pre-K program continues to set the standard for early childhood education.
“Every new classroom we add is an investment in a child’s future and a continuation of Alabama’s legacy as a national leader in early childhood education,” Brooks said.
Earlier this year, Alabama’s First Class Pre-K program was recognized by the National Institute for Early Education Research as the nation’s highest quality, state funded Pre-K program for a 20th consecutive year. Alabama is the only state to earn the distinction for 20 straight years.
The 64 new classrooms will begin serving children during the 2026-27 school year, helping meet growing demand for high-quality, early learning opportunities across the state.
