Preschool: The Littlest Job-Readiness Program?

Chana R. Schoenberger:

Can finger-painting, cup-stacking and learning to share set you up for a stellar career?

Research says yes, according to Dr. Celia Ayala, chief executive officer of Los Angeles Universal Preschool, a nonprofit that funds 325 schools in Los Angeles County, Calif., using money from tobacco taxes.

"When they enter kindergarten ready to thrive with all the social, emotional and cognitive skills, they perform at grade level or above," she said. "When they don't, that's where that achievement gap starts."

Kids without that early boost have been shown to be more likely to get special-needs services, be held back a grade or two, get in trouble with the law and become teen parents. Preschool alumni have a better chance, she said.

"Those who go to preschool will go on to university, will have a graduate education, and their income level will radically improve," she said.

Posted by Jim Zellmer at June 1, 2012 1:21 AM
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