Letters: Early education can put kids on a path to college
Thank you for writing about the Nutter administration's efforts to double the percentage of college graduates in Philadelphia ("New city office to focus on college," Monday).
Thank you for writing about the Nutter administration's efforts to double the percentage of college graduates in Philadelphia ("New city office to focus on college," Monday).
While a K-16 framework may be a stretch for readers who think of college preparation as something that occurs only in high school, it is important to consider it in relation to the earlier years, given what we know about early childhood brain development.
Children who participate in high-quality early childhood education are more likely to graduate from high school, attend college, and contribute to the tax base.
There are hopeful signs. The School District of Philadelphia has dramatically expanded the number of preschool children it serves. With support from the state, the district enrolls 60 percent more children in early childhood education than in 2002. And the Philadelphia Workforce Development Corporation is providing tuition assistance to enable 75 early childhood education teachers to complete their college degrees. The ultimate beneficiaries are not only teachers, but also the children they serve and the city.
Christie Balka
Public Citizens for Children and Youth
Philadelphia