The Road to High-Quality Early Learning: Lessons in State Pre-K Design, Implementation, and Expansion

• In Event: 18.058 - MTCC Roundtable Session Four
  In Roundtable Session: 18.058-5 - Pre-K Policy Implementation

Abstract

Although there is considerable research on the elements and benefits of high-quality preschool, little information is available about how to convert visions of quality early education into on-the-ground reality and how to scale those visions statewide. This paper fills that gap by analyzing how four states—Michigan, West Virginia, Washington and North Carolina—have implemented and scaled high-quality state pre-k. It offers insights about how to prioritize quality and continuous improvement, invest in training and coaching for educators, coordinate birth-through-grade-3 programs, make ongoing investments in access and quality, and sustain political and public momentum for early learning. There is no single path to high quality in early education; these case studies illuminate the numerous approaches a state may take.

Authors

• Marjorie E. Wechsler, Learning Policy Institute

• David Kirp, The University of California-Berkeley

• Titilayo Ali, Learning Policy Institute

• Madelyn Gardner, Learning Policy Institute

• Anna Maier, Learning Policy Institute

• Hanna Melnick, Learning Policy Institute

• Patrick M. Shields, Learning Policy Institute