The quality of experiences in a child’s first five years is critical to long-term success. This is when children most rapidly develop neural connections, learning and social skills, language, self-control, and working memory. To ensure success for all Colorado children, the state must create equitable access to high-quality pre-kindergarten (pre-K) programs that provide meaningful connections and early learning foundations. Building upon its research into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Colorado’s early care and learning sector, Early Milestones asked child care providers and families in early 2021 about universal pre-kindergarten (UPK), which is slated to begin in 2023. This brief explores data for decision-makers to consider when developing an equitable UPK system during a global pandemic. (author abstract)