Few public policy options offer returns like high-quality pre-k. Decades of rigorous research demonstrate that quality early education programs benefit children academically and socially well into adulthood.

Pre-k also strengthens communities over time by building a more competitive future workforce and contributing to long-term savings. Every dollar invested in quality pre-k can save taxpayers up to $7 over time in higher earnings, tax revenues, crime control, and reduced costs.Some of the intergenerational benefits of pre-k include:

Successful Students:

• Pre-k reduces grade repetition.
• Pre-k minimizes the number of children needing special education.
• Pre-k helps children do better on standardized tests.
• Pre-k increases high school graduation rates.

Responsible Adults:

• Pre-k reduces crime and delinquency.
• Pre-k lowers rates of teen pregnancy.
• Pre-k leads to greater employment and higher wages as adults.

Stronger Communities:

• Pre-k programs produce a more competitive future workforce.
• Pre-k programs promote long-term fiscal stability

Visit our resources section for state-specific fact sheets and reports to get information on the benefits of pre-k for all generations.

Visit our Take Action Center to learn more about federal legislation that you can support to increase early education opportunities.