But this summer, provider shortages mean only 22 are enrolled, with another 16 having graduated from the pre-K program in May. The county’s pre-K program has demonstrated evidence of its success, with more than nine in 10 students achieving or exceeding academic expectations. But for this upcoming school year, Durham PreK had to cut 34 seats due to county budget restrictions. Chappel said there also may be cuts to pre-K seats that are partially funded by the county. In Durham, childcare experts don’t yet know exactly what that will mean for Durham’s providers, said Wells at Durham’s Partnership for Children.