Research Library
Who Is Ahead and Who Is Behind? Gaps in School Readiness and Student Achievement in the Early Grades for California's Children
Author: Cannon, J., Karoly, L.
Publisher: RAND Corporation
Publication Date: 2007
Summary or Abstract: The RAND Corporation has undertaken the California Preschool Study, a multicomponent study to explore how the achievement gap in California may be addressed by expanding preschool opportunities for more children. This study is the first of three, with a fourth synthesis study to follow. The study draws upon a variety of data sources to assess the current readiness and achievement of California students in the early elementary grades and the positive influence that quality preschool programs can have on school readiness and performance. Key findings include the following: 1) many students are performing below state standards; 2) there are large differences between groups; 3) preschool programs appear to be promising, but there is a need to verify scope for expansion. Data and statistics are included.