Who Goes to Preschool and Why Does it Matter?

Earlier this month, the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) released a new policy brief, Who Goes to Preschool and Why Does it Matter?

Summary:
Preschool participation in the U.S. has been increasing steadily over the last four decades. By 2005, more than two-thirds of the nation's 4-year-olds were enrolled in a preschool program -- but who are these children? Where are they? This policy brief identifies factors that influence preschool enrollment, such as income, geography and ethnicity, and offers policy recommendations to address inequities in access.

View the full policy brief

At Ready 4 K, we believe that every child in Minnesota deserves access to a high quality early learning experience before kindergarten. Studies like this report from NIEER show that children who could benefit most from participating in a pre-kindergarten program are often the least able to access a quality program. As Ready 4 K prepares for the 2008 legislative session and looks to build for the 2009 session and the future, we will continue to advocate for more children to have access to pre-k programs and for parents to be supported in getting their kids ready for school.