Leading educators say a child's early years are a period of rapid growth, during which key concepts related to future academic success are developed.

Long-range studies clearly document the value of early training for young children. These studies show that young adults who attended a high-quality preschool program demonstrated greater gains in education, employment, and social responsibility than similar young adults who did not attend preschool.

Prekindergarten education in Texas is state-mandated and funded for students whose home environment or limited English might impede their success in school and in life. Through prekindergarten experiences, many of these children may avoid the downward spiral of academic failure and inevitable dropout.

The prekindergarten program described in the publication stresses intensive language development. It focuses on developmentally appropriate learning activities that prepare children for the language requirements of kindergarten. (Priority '86 Texas Education Agency)

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