HCPSS Begins Construction on Dedicated Pre-K Early Learning Center

September 2nd, 2026

In June, construction began at the site of the Faulkner Ridge Center in Columbia, formerly Faulkner Ridge Elementary School. In August 2027, the center will open as a dedicated early learning center for students throughout the county. The renovation of the building, which has been vacant since 2011, was made possible by one-time State pass through grant funding announced by the Howard County Government in 2023.

When the early learning center opens next fall, it will include programming for both 3- and 4-year-olds, including those with disabilities, and will largely serve students in that region of the county. The center will add at least 13 classrooms for up to 260 students, including recreational space, and will begin enrolling students in Spring 2027.

“What excites me most is the potential for this center to become a truly community-centered place where educators, families and community partners work together to understand and support the needs of every child,” said Principal James Funkhouser. “We have the opportunity to build not only the foundation for each child’s educational journey, but also the relationships, confidence and sense of belonging that will support them throughout life.”

Expanding prekindergarten access is a requirement of Maryland’s Blueprint for the Future, which mandates the expansion of free, full-day Pre-K for income-eligible 3- and 4-year-olds so that all children have the opportunity to begin kindergarten ready to learn.

“We look forward to welcoming our county’s youngest learners through these doors next school year, setting the foundation for lifelong learning and achievement and creating more equitable opportunities by helping to set them up for success as they begin their school careers,” said Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) Superintendent Bill Barnes.

To work toward meeting the Blueprint goal, HCPSS has already converted all half-day 4-year-old Pre-K programs to full-day programs, and has more than doubled the number of 4-year-old students with access to Pre-K programming by expanding those classrooms in 33 of its 42 elementary schools. A long-term goal is to provide Pre-K programming in all elementary schools across the County.

Find more information about HCPSS prekindergarten programs online.

Through Sept. 11, HCPSS is accepting public suggestions for the name of the early childhood center located at Faulkner Ridge.