Indiana’s On My Way Pre-K (OMWPK) program is undergoing significant changes for the 2025–2026 school year.

Key updates include:

• State-Only Funding: OMWPK will no longer be co-funded by the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF); it will be fully funded by the state.
• Enrollment Cap: Participation is limited to 2,500 children, including limited eligibility cases.
• Voucher Changes: Each voucher will be capped at $6,800 annually and must include at least a 5% match. Weekly reimbursement to providers is set at $147.82, and families must pay any overage if provider rates exceed that amount.
• Eligibility Adjustments: Parents or guardians must be working, in school, or in job training. Simply looking for a job no longer qualifies. Family income must be at or below 140% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
• Voucher Use: Vouchers apply only to the eligible Pre-K child, not siblings. Siblings must apply separately through CCDF.
• Program Timing: Vouchers begin with the Pre-K school start date (typically July or August). Before/after care and school breaks may still be covered under CCDF.

The changes come amid new state laws and budget decisions according to a memo released by The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration.

On My Way Pre-K offers vouchers to help 4-year-olds from low-income families attend high-quality pre-kindergarten programs the year before they enter kindergarten. The program is available in all 92 Indiana counties and offers flexible options, including full-day and part-day programs to fit families’ needs. Families apply on a first come, first served basis, and there are a limited number of slots per county—so applying early is recommended. Once approved, families can use the voucher at any eligible On My Way Pre-K provider, which can include public or private schools, licensed child care centers or homes, and registered ministries, as long as they meet state program standards.

The latest cuts will impact many Hoosiers as participation next year will be almost cut in half from this year.