Date

12-2016

Document Type

Capstone Project (Open Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Department

Social, Behavioral & Global Studies

First Advisor

Juan Jose Gutierrez

Abstract

Over the last several decades, studies using quantitative and qualitative research methods have produced positive effects on children’s learning and behavioral development. These effects vary in size and lasting effect depending on the type of program implemented. Current public policies for child care, Head Start, and state pre-K do not ensure that most American children will attend a highly effective preschool program. In actuality, a striking amount of children attend weak programs and many others attend no program at all. These fall backs in attendance are mainly associated with children in poverty-to-low-income households, (Barnett, 2008). Data supports that early childhood programs, like preschool, have a positive life-long impact that accounts for $8 to $14 return on every $1 investment made towards early education. The returns in this investment would show up in lowered crime rates and greater economic productivity. Research has proven the positive effects of tailored early education programs on a community. The objective is to provide policy-makers with the information that shows that reallocating funds and implementing it into quality tailored preschool programs improves school readiness, especially in poor-to-low income students.

Share

COinS