A Vision for Universal Preschool Education

Decades of research point to the need for a universal preschool education program in the U.S. to help give our nation's children a sound cognitive and social foundation on which to build future educational and life successes. In addition to enhanced school readiness and improved academic performance, participation in high quality preschool programs has been linked with reductions in grade retentions and school drop out rates, and cost savings associated with a diminished need for remedial educational services and justice services. This book brings together nationally renowned experts from the fields of psychology, education, economics and political science to present a compelling case for expanded access to preschool services. They describe the social, educational, and economic benefits for the nation as a whole that may result from the implementation of a universal preschool program in America, and provide guiding principles upon which such a system can best be founded.

Edward Zigler is Sterling Professor of Psychology Emeritus at Yale University and Director Emeritus of the Edward Zigler Center in Child Development and Social Policy Walter S. Gilliam is Assistant Professor of Child Psychiatry and Psychology at the Yale University Child Study Center and Director of the Edward Zigler Center in Child Development and Social Policy Stephanie M. Jones is Assistant Professor of Psychology at Fordham University