Family Perspectives of the Initial Implementation of an Equity-Focused Universal Preschool Program

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 11:45 am - Gold 1
  In Roundtable Session: Unforgetting Childhood: Policy, Practice, and the Futures of Early Learning

Abstract

Finding high-quality, affordable, and accessible early education is a challenge for families in the United States, especially those from historically marginalized communities. Free, universal preschool programs, like Preschool for All (PFA), aim to address these barriers by offering high-quality, culturally responsive preschool for all 3- and 4-year-olds. This mixed-methods study explores families’ experiences during PFA’s initial implementation. Data from family surveys and focus groups highlight key drivers of preschool decision-making, including location, cost, and socialization needs, while also revealing compromises families made. Despite some administrative hurdles, families reported overall satisfaction, feeling a sense of sociocultural inclusion and responsiveness to their children’s needs. Findings offer valuable insights to inform early implementation efforts in other communities launching universal preschool programs.

Authors

• Dede Addy, Boston University

• Desiree' DuBoise, Portland State University

• Melissa Lucas, Yale University

• Kyle DeMeo Cook, Boston University

• Stephanie M. Curenton, Boston University

• Xia Zhang, Multnomah County

• Janice Cole, Multnomah County