The Promise of Pre-K

Combining the most current knowledge of top researchers, policy makers, and federal and state officials, this book examines where pre-K is today and inspires decision-makers with concrete examples of successful programs.

With this in-depth examination of the latest research and practice, readers will be better prepared to

• make a compelling argument for supporting high-quality pre-K, articulating how it boosts children's school readiness and academic performance
• address the complex challenges of expanding pre-K at the national and state level
• understand the pros and cons of different types of pre-K programs: universal vs. targeted, whole day vs. part day, centralized vs. local, one curriculum vs. many
• make informed decisions about the most important issues in program development

To find out what's already working in pre-K program development, readers will get an inside look at five successful state-level programs in New York, Maryland, Louisiana, Georgia, and North Carolina. Through detailed analyses of each program's characteristics, these extended case examples give decision-makers a template for effective, child-centered early education.

An essential resource for policy makers, researchers, and teacher educators, this important volume will help early childhood professionals make progress toward their ultimate goal: pre-K that responds to children's changing needs, helps close the achievement gap, and ensures school readiness.

Critical insights on key issues in pre-K program development:

• program funding
• adherence to early learning standards
• assessment of both children and program quality
• teacher preparation
• class size
• curriculum selection
• technical assistance and other infrastructure needs