Universal Pre-school in Oklahoma

Drum Major Institute for Public Policy: Marketplace of Ideas

Target Level of Government:    State
Policy Category:    Education
Possible Allies:    Teachers, Parent Organizations, Businesses

Synopsis: Oklahoma has made public pre-school available to all four-year olds in 95 percent of the state’s school districts. This high-quality program ranks first in the nation in student access and enrollment rates. It has demonstrated a significant positive impact on children’s math and literacy skills, particularly for kids from low-income homes.

Public pre-school enables parents to work, knowing their young children are in a safe, educational environment. Studies suggest that every dollar invested in early childhood education saves taxpayers in futures costs, as children who attend pre-school are more likely to graduate high school and become employed and less likely to commit crimes and receive public assistance later in life.

Resources:
Listen to DMI’s Marketplace of Ideas panel discussion with Oklahoma State Senator Penny Williams, sponsor of the universal pre-school legislation here.

Details:
In 1990, after a lot of teachers walking in the rain, circling the capitol, we finally passed this Education Reform Bill with the money to pay for it. Two years later they tried to repeal it. We had a [ballot referendum on repeal] and ‘Vote No’ was our campaign. We actually were successful. So, through a vote of the people of Oklahoma, we voted to keep this commitment to early childhood.
- State Senator Williams at DMI’s Marketplace of Ideas event

I think this is an issue that people care tremendously about, because it is about their kids and making sure their kids have the foundation they need to do well in school. But then it’s also an issue about working people. It’s about the reality of lives of average folks and the struggle of being a New Yorker; having a place where your child will be safe, well taken care of, educated and stimulated.
- New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn at DMI’s Marketplace of Ideas event