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Wednesday, March 7, 2007

Pre-K Is Getting Noticed

By Diane Denish
Democratic Lieutenant Governor
    The science is conclusive: Children that participate in high-quality early education programs are more likely to graduate high school, go on to college, and maintain meaningful employment.
    Furthermore, children enrolled in such programs are significantly less likely to require special education or be held back a grade, and they are far better prepared for success once they enter school.
    A recent five-state study conducted by the National Institute for Early Education Research found substantial early language, math and reading gains among children who received state-funded Pre-K education at age 4.
    The evidence gathered also shows that Pre-K benefits children regardless of ethnic background or economic circumstances. From rural West Virginia to urban New Jersey to suburban Oklahoma, Pre-K has proved its ability to increase children's school readiness.
    Other studies also document that children who receive quality Pre-K education do better in Kindergarten through 12th grade. Pre-K helps to significantly close the achievement gap and lifts the burden off public schools in struggling to help school-age kids catch up.
    Studies have found that adults that attended Pre-K are more likely to be employed and more likely to earn more than $20,000 per year than those not exposed to early education programs. In addition, these same adults are also far less likely to become dependent on welfare.
    Early-childhood education enriches our children's lives, leads to better student achievement and, in the long run, saves taxpayers money. New Mexico Pre-K is a critical investment; it's the foundation to build a better workforce and a stronger economy.
    Now is the time to increase our investment in New Mexico's children and double the number of 4-year-olds enrolled in New Mexico Pre-K to yield the results we envision for our children, our economy, and our state.
    The chairmen and presidents of the Rio Rancho, Albuquerque and Hispano chambers of commerce signed on to this commentary.