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PBS Kids Launches 'Phoebe & Jay' Amid Funding Cuts

2/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

PBS Kids premieres Phoebe & Jay as the last program funded by the Ready to Learn initiative, which faced cuts under the current administration.
The series is co-created by Genie Deez and Thy Than, centering on functional literacy for twins Phoebe and Jay.
PBS leaders Paula Kerger and Sara DeWitt say they remain optimistic about securing new support after the $20 million funding loss.

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Story summary

PBS Kids premieres Phoebe & Jay as the last program funded by the Ready to Learn initiative, which faced cuts under the current administration.
The series is co-created by Genie Deez and Thy Than, centering on functional literacy for twins Phoebe and Jay.
PBS leaders Paula Kerger and Sara DeWitt say they remain optimistic about securing new support after the $20 million funding loss.