Celebrating the Week of the Early Child, April 13-19
Sunday, April 13, 2008
From blocks and story time to chemistry and expository writing, learning begins at birth and can last a lifetime. But while early childhood programs may only seem relevant to grade school teachers and parents of young children, extensive scientific research indicates that quality early childhood education benefits everyone, both in terms of quality of life and community economic stability.
In fact, the landmark Perry Preschool Study of the effects of high-quality early care and education on low-income three- and four-year-olds shows that adults at age 40 who participated in a preschool program in their early years have higher earnings, are more likely to hold a job, have committed fewer crimes and are more likely to have graduated from high school. Overall, the study documented a return to society of more than $16 for every tax dollar invested in the early care and education program, due to tax-funded programs that are no longer needed.
“The Perry study and other important research makes it clear that high-quality educational programs for young children will pay off,” said Don Grosdidier, Eudora’s assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction. “There is a clear financial return for our community. But perhaps most importantly, the children who benefit will have increased success in school environment, which has a profound positive effect on their quality of life.”
As research findings are reported about the importance of early childhood education, Eudora Schools is taking every opportunity to offer services and programs that will promote early learning. The next major step in this process will be the establishment of an early childhood education center at West Elementary, beginning in the fall of 2009 when the new Eudora Elementary School opens for first through fifth grade students.
This center will house kindergarten and the district’s current preschool program, geared to students who are identified to need extra preparation for kindergarten. Plans also are being explored to possibly partner with or house such national programs as Parents as Teachers, Head Start and Early Head Start.
To learn more about the measurable benefits of early childhood education, visit www.highscope.org and watch for the Perry Preschool Student to roll by under "Hot Topics."
