Enrollment in state-funded preschool programs has reached a record high, according to the National Institute for Early Education Research at Rutgers University. The annual report highlights significant variations in program quality and progress across states. Director Steve Barnett describes it as a race where some states are advancing while others lag behind.
Key Points
- Record enrollment in state-funded preschools nationwide.
- Program quality and momentum vary significantly by state.
- Annual report from Rutgers’ National Institute for Early Education Research.
Implications for Educational Freedom
Increased reliance on state-funded preschools may represent government overreach in early education, potentially limiting parental rights and school choice options. This underscores the need for expanded ESAs and vouchers to empower parents with alternatives to varying-quality public programs.
Source: Kids in State-Funded Preschools Hit Record High, but Program Quality Varies
