June 17, 2007: Education reform must start at preschool level

by Staff, published in the Sunday Republican, June 17, 2007

Just as an architect wouldn't design a house without a strong foundation, it would be folly for the state to build an education reform plan without pouring some dollars into early childhood education. That's why the most important part of Gov. Deval L. Patrick's ambitious eight-year plan to overhaul public education is the plank calling for universal preschool and full-day kindergarten.

    While some may rightly question the state's ability to afford some of the governor's education proposals - chiefly the plan to make community colleges free for all high school graduates - the commonwealth can't play a game of nickels and dimes with early education.

    Indeed, the state can't begin to talk about education reform unless it makes quality, affordable early childhood education the right of every child in the commonwealth.

    The Massachusetts Universal Pre-Kindergarten Program is currently funded at $4.6 million and the state's fiscal 2008 budget calls for funding the program at $7.14 million.

    Even with the increase in funding efforts to prepare every child in the commonwealth for success, education expert Margaret Blood says issues of poverty and literacy need addressing if the state is going to be successful developing educated, successful children.

    Blood, the president of Strategies for Children, which is promoting a statewide campaign called "Early Education for All," was in Springfield last week to bring her message to business and community leaders. It was well-received.

    During a question-and-answer session at the conference sponsored by Cherish Every Child at the Early Childhood Center of Greater Springfield, business, education and community leaders agreed that communities must provide a seamless education system in which early childhood education provides the foundation for students to become successful readers by third grade.

    Study after study has shown that early childhood programs have an overwhelmingly positive impact on learning and preparing children for school - and for life. Laying the foundation early is also a good investment in the future of the state's economy. Without that investment, companies won't be able to prosper and grow.