ALIGNMENT OF PRE-K & KINDERGARTEN PROGRAMS EMPHASIZED

Source: [natural_resources2] Schools, Families, and Social and Emotional Learning: Ideas and Tools for Working with Parents and Families, March 29, 2006

ALIGNMENT OF PRE-K & KINDERGARTEN PROGRAMS EMPHASIZED

In this paper, Kristie Kauerz outlines the importance of having strong, well-aligned programs beginning in Pre-K and extending through third grade (PK-3). It reviews the short-term impact of Pre-K and full day kindergarten programs, then summarizes the evidence that these impacts may "fade out" by the primary grades. To fight fade-out, PK-3 alignment is proffered as one means to enable children to maintain and expand upon the gains they make in early childhood education. PK-3 suggests that Pre-K experiences should be aligned with kindergarten and that kindergarten should be aligned with early elementary education. The paper closes with federal policy recommendations that provide both models and incentives for the nation, states, and local school districts to institute and strengthen PK-3 alignment.

Download the paper at http://www.newamerica.net/Download_Docs/pdfs/Doc_File_2826_1.pdf