# Early Childhood Education & Development Committee Meeting | Nov. 10, 2026

The Buncombe County Early Childhood Education & Development Committee meeting, held November 10, 2026, focused on the “Buncombe Pre-K” local supplement to North Carolina Pre-K. Staff presented the program’s design, outcomes, provider participation, and budget scenarios as the committee considers how to use county funds. The supplement helps cover the gap between state reimbursement and the cost of meeting NC Pre-K standards, including provider slot-rate enhancements, teacher-pay supplements, and family outreach and enrollment support. The discussion referenced approximately 422 current slots and a historical/current annual funding level of roughly $700,000–$800,000. Staff also outlined lower-, middle-, and higher-investment scenarios; one option would move teacher supplements toward parity with the state salary schedule, with a potentially substantial increase in compensation. Other program costs, including administration and implementation, were described as capped at $125,000 or 10% of program costs.

Members discussed risks from changing state and federal funding, the recent increase in child-care subsidy reimbursement rates, declining slot totals as the provider mix changes, and whether the county investment can sustain provider participation and expand access. They also raised possible future legislative advocacy for stronger state funding and broader pre-K access. No contract award, procurement approval, funding vote, or formal action on a budget scenario was reported; the committee will continue its review at upcoming meetings.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Education
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** November 13, 2026

### Sources
- [Early Childhood Education & Development Committee Meeting | Nov. 10, 2026](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bv8xn4w0zEQ) - Buncombe County Government