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.

 







COLORADO

Highlights of the State
 Children who have attended the Colorado preschool program have been tracked and have higher 2nd and 3rd grade math, reading and writing scores. We are closing the achievement gap for high risk kids.

 Implementation of a school readiness bill to improve ECE in low performing elementary schools.

 Ready to Succeed Partnership leads Denver metro initiative with seven partners. Developed indicators and tracking changes over five years.

 Use of tobacco settlement funds to bring nurse home visitation program to Colorado.


Policy Issues
 Implement the comprehensive plan of the Colorado Child Care Commission (the plan is in the works and first of ten established goals is (All children will enter school ready to succeed).
 Sustain funding for ECE programs (Colorado preschool program, Tony Grampsas Intervention Fund, etc.).
 Support and expand mental health services for families with young children.


Statutory Children's Cabinet
The Colorado Child Care Commission
The Colorado Child Care Commission was created in 2000 by legislation written by child advocates. The Commission consists of 6 legislators and 9 governor appointees. Its charge over the next three years is to study the role of government in child care issues and develop a long range plan for the state.

Colorado School Readiness
Access Colorado's School Readiness Indicators; Making Progress for Young Children, by clicking on the following link:
www.schoolreadinesscolorado.org


 

 

 
  
 

 
       

© 2005, School Readiness Indicators Initiative
One Union Station Providence, RI 02903 401.351.9400 fax 401.351.1758
If you have a question or comment about this website, please contact us.

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