Factors Associated With Enrollment Status of a Pre-Kindergarten Choice Program: Demographics, Programmatic Incentives, and Timing of Application

• In Event: The Role of School Districts in Shaping Educational Leadership

Abstract

Research on factors influencing parental decisions on enrolling their children in pre-kindergarten choice programs is scarce. This study fills this gap by evaluating the application and enrollment patterns of a one program in Texas. Themes in the literature include: 1) which demographic groups remain underserved; 2) targeted access to early childhood education; and 3) school marketing techniques. Chi-squared analyses and a series of block-entry linear probability models were used to predict enrollment status. Results include relationships between various demographic characteristics and enrollment status. This study found that offering dual language, transportation, or after school care did not affect enrollment status. Also, it found that early and late applicants enrolled at significantly higher rates than middle applicants.

Author

• Paul Kienlen, North East Independent School District