Buoyed by evidence of the long-run benefits to children, families, and communities, states have for years been expanding preschool options and enrollment. The state role in early education keeps growing. Authors in this issue of the Standard document how states have expanded access to quality early education, the research that supports these efforts, and the growing pains these initiatives are likely to experience.
Articles
Opportunities and Challenges for Preschool Expansion
By Steven Barnett and Allison Friedman-KraussAs states adopt a bigger role in preschool, state leaders need to be ready to steer through tough questions of quality, access, funding, and continuous improvement.
Universal Pre-K in Tulsa: A Surprising Success
By William GormleyLongitudinal studies of Tulsa’s universal pre-K program reveal benefits to students that persist as they move through elementary and secondary school and on to college.
An Economic Perspective on Preschool for All
By David M. BlauIs “preschool for all” the best way to extend access to preschool to the children who need it most?
State Strategies for Improving Young Children’s Math Skills
By Deborah StipekEarly math instruction is as important to young learners' futures as literacy. It's time for math to get the same level of attention.
California’s Transitional Kindergarten: Lessons Learned
By Anna Powell, Wanzi Muruvi and Brandy Jones LawrenceStates can learn from California's statewide launch of transitional kindergarten, which has impacts on other ECE providers, workforce preparation and compensation, professional development, funding, and program evaluation, as well as implications for system governance.
Opinion
Expanding Access to Quality Early Childhood Education in Arkansas
By Leigh KeenerThe state’s LEARNS Act creates the roadmap for a unified system, and the state board has a key role to play.
Illinois’s Bold Bid to Expand Preschool Access to All
By Chris BensonThrough the Smart Start Illinois initiative, Illinois is expanding access to preschool, increasing funding to child care providers to raise wages and quality, and reaching more vulnerable families with early support.
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