Lexington 1 School District evaluates success of 4K programs in enhancing kindergarten readiness

The Lexington 01 Board of Trustees meeting on June 10, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in early childhood education programs, particularly the district's 4K initiatives. Shane Phillips presented a comprehensive evaluation of the 4K programs, revealing that students who participated in these programs demonstrated a notable readiness advantage for kindergarten compared to their peers who did not attend. Specifically, 41% of 4K attendees were deemed ready for kindergarten, compared to only 31% of non-attendees.

Phillips emphasized the importance of these programs as a public alternative to private preschool options, focusing on students with the highest needs. The evaluation utilized a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from assessments with qualitative feedback from parents and staff. The results indicated that while reading instruction was a strength, there remains a need for improvement in math performance among early learners.

The board also discussed the importance of enhancing communication with parents regarding their children's developmental progress, particularly for families in poverty. This feedback will inform future program improvements and ensure that all families are adequately supported.

In addition to the educational updates, the board addressed the discontinuation of the student drug testing program, aligning policy with current budget priorities. The meeting concluded with a report from the superintendent, who reflected on the district's accomplishments over the past three years, including increased student enrollment in 4K programs and improvements in academic performance post-COVID.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to fostering early childhood education and addressing the diverse needs of its student population, setting a positive trajectory for future educational outcomes.