The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:
Janet Wittenbraker
During my 2024 campaign for the Pima County Board of Supervisors, I raised thoughtful concerns about the use of taxpayer funds for the Pima Early Education Program Scholarships (PEEPS). My perspective is rooted in a commitment to fiscal responsibility: every tax dollar must be spent efficiently to deliver meaningful benefits to our community. While PEEPS supporters highlight its potential to foster long-term economic growth, I believe it’s reasonable to question whether this is the most pressing role for local government — especially when critical needs like road maintenance and public safety require urgent attention.
That said, I took the time to look at the numbers. The data shows high-quality preschool can improve children’s skills and outcomes later in life. In the 2023–24 school year, 1,923 children received PEEPS scholarships, and 95% of parents reported noticeable developmental progress. The idea is that helping parents work supports family stability and the economy. Some studies even claim a return of $4 to $16 per dollar invested — a strong case for its value.
However, the program’s cost is significant. PEEPS has been supported by $30.2 million in temporary federal COVID relief funds from Pima County, along with contributions from Tucson, Marana, and Oro Valley, reaching a $33.7 million budget ceiling (2021–2025), excluding private contributions. With federal funding expiring in 2025, Pima County plans to shift costs to the Library District’s property tax — a quiet way to keep raising local taxes. Meanwhile, Tucson’s proposed $750,000 cut to PEEPS in FY 2026, though a modest portion of the program’s budget, underscores the funding challenges ahead as federal support wanes.
Tucson’s FY 2026 budget, a hefty $2.4 billion, faces a shortfall, requiring careful prioritization of essential services like public safety and infrastructure. Instead of minor cuts to PEEPS, the City Council should explore savings in less critical areas, such as the fare-free transit program, which faces declining ridership and safety issues.
We must face tough choices head-on. With Arizona ranking 48th in the nation for K-12 education (US News 2024), can we justify expanding pre-K while our core schools falter? Is government-funded preschool the wisest use of limited local resources? Just 26% of PEEPS preschools achieve a 5-star rating, with quality spanning 2 to 5 stars, highlighting the urgency of prioritizing reliable, high-value programs.
The structure of PEEPS funding also warrants review. Currently, Pima County channels funds through First Things First — a state agency supported by tobacco taxes — which then partners with Valley of the Sun United Way to distribute scholarships. This multi-layered process introduces administrative costs, including $240,143 in Pima County annual overhead, that could be reduced, streamlining operations, and maximizing resources for classrooms.
Eligibility standards offer a chance for thoughtful improvement. Currently, families earning up to 300% of the Federal Poverty Level qualify for PEEPS. Adjusting eligibility to focus on families earning around 225% of FPL, while considering factors like proof of employment, inability to work (such as due to a permanent disability), and the adult-to-child ratio, would better direct support to those most in need. This approach would help manage costs while ensuring aid reaches vulnerable households.
Additionally, transforming PEEPS into a voucher-style program could empower parents to choose preschools that align with their values and their children’s needs, rather than limiting options to state-approved providers. This approach would enhance flexibility and accountability, ensuring funds directly support families.
Early education is a valuable investment, but it must be balanced with fiscal discipline and a commitment to core services like public safety and infrastructure. By streamlining administration, tightening eligibility, and exploring innovative models like vouchers, PEEPS can deliver greater value to taxpayers while supporting our children’s success. I invite a constructive dialogue on how we can refine this program to benefit our community while living within our means. Thereby creating a brighter Tucson together.
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