Benefits of Pre-K

Study after study shows that children who go to pre-K perform better academically, have higher high school graduation rates, and have more opportunities to go to college. All this translates into better salaries in the future and a better quality of life. For every dollar invested in early education, there is a return for society of at least 8 dollars. Children ages 3 and 4 who attend pre-K are able to develop their social, language, and academic skills, but these opportunities are currently very limited for those who cannot afford private pre-K. Both AIM’s listening sessions and studies have shown that many women have to leave the labor force because they lack access to childcare. On the other hand, when Washington, DC implemented universal pre-K, there was a 10% increase in women joining the workforce.

AIM’s Perspective

We have a vision in which every parent who wants their 3 and 4 year old child to attend preschool can have an affordable and high quality option to do so. We believe that if we invest in our youngest, then we are also investing in our economy. We believe that when communities come together with hope and a willingness to work towards solutions, we can solve complex problems. We believe we have a moral obligation to support the well-being of our youngest and create systems that support working families.

Current State of Pre-K

Montgomery County is falling far short of the number of pre-K seats required by the statewide policy the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. Only 26% of children who need access to public pre-K are being served. We have received promises from Montgomery County officials to expand pre-K, but only one community-based pre-K spot was created last year. At the current rate, it will take 25 years to reach universal pre-K. 

That isn’t fast enough. We want Montgomery County to expand pre-K more quickly, starting this year.