MN researchers show investment is real

The StarTribune again published an editorial highlighting early childhood issues. This week the editorial featured the research that Minnesota researchers Arthur Reynolds and Judy Temple have done in conjunction with the Chicago Child Parent Centers. There are critics who argue that investments in early education do not last. Indeed, the research proves, the investments do last and are profound.

The investment aspect of providing quality early childhood experiences to our youngest Minnesotans is an important one. We know that when children experience quality early learning in their first five years it not only benefits the individual child and their family, but it benefits all of us.

Age 3 to Grade 3 model gets attention

The StarTribune published an editorial this week highlighting Age 3 to Grade 3 as an early childhood education model. Age 3 to Grade 3 (sometimes called PreK-3) is comprised of at least three parts: high quality early care and education, all day kindergarten, and curriculum and standards alignment through third grade with parent involvement throughout. Ideally, this would take place in one location and the staff would have consistent contact with the children for all 6 years.

Research shows that the PreK-3 approach can close the student achievement gap, reduce the need for special education services and increase the likelihood of a future educated and competitive workforce. An article by Bill Graves, PK-3: What is it and How Do We Know it Works? gives more detail about the PreK-3 approach.

Ready 4 K has been promoting PreK-3 as an innovation in early education and for closing the achievement gap. In the 2007 legislative session Ready 4 K proposed piloting PreK-3 models as part of a larger package for improving linkages between early childhood and K-12 education. See a summary of the proposed bill. Funding for these pilots was eliminated in last minute budget negotiations at the end of legislative session. Ready 4 K will again raise PreK-3 as a positive step toward our goal of ensuring kids in Minnesota are ready for kindergarten and ready for life.