State Advisory Council urges improved data for equitable pre K access across Vermont

Vermont's Senate Education Committee is tackling significant challenges in early childhood education, particularly regarding access to pre-kindergarten programs. During a recent meeting, officials highlighted that over 60% of pre-K capacity is found in private community-based programs, leaving public schools with only 43% of available slots. This disparity raises concerns about equitable access across the state, especially in rural areas where families struggle to find affordable options.

The committee discussed the importance of a mixed delivery model for pre-K, emphasizing that a one-size-fits-all approach would not meet the diverse needs of Vermont's children. "We can't just have one size fits all model for delivering pre-K because that will limit equitable access," one official stated, underscoring the need for tailored solutions.

A key focus was on the positive outcomes associated with pre-K attendance. Children who participated in pre-K programs showed higher readiness for kindergarten, with notable improvements in math and social-emotional development. However, officials cautioned that significant changes in child outcomes may take time, as investments in early education continue to unfold.

The meeting also addressed geographical disparities, particularly in the Northeast corner of the state, where many children are forced to attend pre-K programs in New Hampshire due to a lack of local options. This situation leads to families incurring full tuition costs for out-of-state programs, highlighting a critical access issue that needs urgent attention.

As the committee moves forward, they are calling for better data collection to track children's access to pre-K services and ensure that investments are effectively meeting the needs of all families. The state advisory council has recommended maintaining a mixed delivery model while also enhancing monitoring and evaluation protocols to improve early childhood education across Vermont. The path ahead will require collaboration and significant investment to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive in their early years.