Families, teachers and policy makers increasingly understand that high-quality pre-kindergarten is a critical part of children's educational experience. In 13 states and the District of Columbia, this recognition is reflected in the choice to finance pre-k programs through the school funding formula. A new report from Pre-K Now, Formula for Success, co-written with the Education Law Center, discusses the benefits and challenges of integrating early education into states' general education funding structures to support pre-k and explores the different models for employing such a strategy. The report also addresses:
When the right policies are in place, the school funding formula offers the best options for providing pre-k programs with secure, sustainable and adequate funding that supports quality and growth over time.