INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WOWO): Governor Mike Pence met with dozens of educators, early education providers and business leaders as part of the state's pilot pre-K program. It's the first gathering of the newly created program.

The meeting drew officials from Allen, Jackson, Lake, Marion and Vanderburgh counties.

In the meeting this morning, Pence applauded the pioneer counties for their efforts to improve education for at-risk, low-income four-year-olds. The meeting was a way to share ideas, innovation and strategic planning for the counties.

The five counties were selected by the Family and Social Services Agency based on need and the counties ability to meet the need.