Policy Proposal Amy Peterman ADMS 628

Proposal To institute free Pre-kindergarten programs in all public elementary schools for children who are age 4 by September 1.

Rationale Currently in the state of Virginia, only “at-risk” four years olds qualify for state funded Pre-K programs. This program seeks to include all 4 year olds into the program on a voluntary basis. Research has shown that students who receive pre-k services prior to entering school for kindergarten have at better chance of being academically successful in upcoming years. Many districts across the state have a high need for pre-k programs. Currently, many Head Start programs are to capacity and cannot adequately serve the number of children in need in their areas.

Research According to The Center for Public Education, “A large and growing body of research shows that investing in high quality pre-kindergarten actually yield benefits for children, schools, and communities.” In addition, “In Georgia, children who attended the state’s universal program overcame the achievement gap they faced prior to enrolling in pre-k by the time they finished kindergarten. Children who received pre-k equaled or exceeded national norms in eight out of nine standardized assessments by the end of their kindergarten year.” www. Centerforpubliceducation.org/main-menupre- kindergarten/

Services Each school system that participates in the program must adhere to the following criteria for services: Quality pre-K education as mandated by the state Section C, Code of Virginia. 6.5 hours a day with before and after school care provided. Parental involvement Comprehensive child health services Comprehensive social services transportation

Funding Currently Virginia state funded pre-k programs receive funding from the state lottery system. To implement the program to include all 4 year olds, more funding would need to come from the lottery program. Other states, such as Georgia, have offered this program for the past 10 years through their lottery system.

Curriculum The curriculum used by these programs must align with Virginia’s Foundation Blocks for Early Learning. This curriculum establishes a measureable range of skills and knowledge essential for 4 year olds to master in order to be successful in kindergarten. Programs also must satisfy state attendance and the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA)

Conclusions It is our belief that by providing universal pre- kindergarten services to all four year olds within the state, we will better prepare our students for a life time of success and academic achievement. State funded pre-k programs have shown benefit in multiple states and have provided the structure and academics needed for children to be ready for kindergarten. By using state lottery funds, school districts can provide a quality pre-k program for those students who qualify (age 4 by September 1)