Science
Large study links public pre-K to lasting academic benefits
A 20-year study of 400,000 Miami-Dade County students found that those who attended public school pre-K outperformed peers from other childcare settings through high school.
The short version
- A 20-year study tracking 400,000 students in Miami-Dade County found that public school pre-K4 attendees earned higher grades and standardized test scores through high school compared to those in other childcare environments.
- Researchers suggest the long-term benefits are tied to higher teacher credentials, as public pre-K programs were the only studied setting requiring teachers to hold a college degree.
- The study features the largest Hispanic sample to date for research of this type, reflecting the demographics of Miami-Dade County.
Key facts
- The research, published in Early Childhood Research Quarterly, tracked Miami-Dade County public school students starting in the third grade and followed their progress through high school.[ScienceDaily]
- The study was led by George Mason University and overseen by Florida International University associate professor Charles Bleiker.[ScienceDaily]
- Researchers compared three preschool environments: public school pre-K, center-based daycares, and home-based providers associated with the Early Learning Coalition.[ScienceDaily]
- Public school pre-K programs were the only childcare settings among those analyzed that mandated a college degree for teachers.[ScienceDaily]
- The researchers attribute the lasting benefits to both better-trained teachers and early exposure to structured classroom routines, which help children transition into elementary school.[ScienceDaily]
Sources
- Researchers followed 400,000 kids for 20 years and found a lasting pre-K advantageScienceDaily - Health