Studies show that educational achievement gaps already exist at Kindergarten entry.  Children from low-income families are more likely to start school with limited language skills, health problems and social and emotional problems that interfere with learning.  The larger the gap at school entry, the harder it is to close.

Language proficiency is a key predictor of school success. Early literacy skills (size of vocabulary, recognizing letters, understanding letter and sound relationships) at kindergarten entry are good predictors of children's reading abilities throughout their educational careers. Language and literacy skills enable children to develop cognitive skills and knowledge and to interact effectively with peers and adults.

 






 

Fulfilling the Promise of Abbott; The Lighthouse Assessment Process: Inproving Programs Through Measured Outcomes (Spring 2004), Policy Brief, Association for Children of New Jersey's Early Learning Initiative.

Click here to view this policy brief.

Fulfilling the Promise of Abbott: The 2004 Deadline: Supporting an Extension of Time for Abbott Preschool Teachers (Spring 2004).  Policy Brief, Association for Children of New Jersey's Early Learning Initiative.

Click here to view this policy brief.

Getting Real About Poverty in New Jersey (Spring 2004), an ACNJ Policy and Budget Brief. 

Click here to view this policy brief.

 
  

       

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The School Readiness Indicators Initiative is supported by the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and the Ford Foundation.
The 17-state initiative is managed by Rhode Island KIDS COUNT