Vital Questions for Nevada About Universal Pre-K

Research consistently shows that children who begin school ready to learn are far more likely to succeed academically and socially. Conversely, when children start behind, the challenges multiply—not only for the students but also for their teachers, families, and the education system. While this may seem like an abstract policy issue, the reality is simple: Investing in early childhood education is one of the most effective ways to ensure long-term success.

Decades of research demonstrate that children who thrive in their K-12 education are more likely to become successful adults, contributing positively to society and requiring fewer social interventions later in life. One of the most potent predictors of future success is kindergarten readiness. With that in mind, what policy options are available to improve the chances of success for Nevada’s children?

This white paper, published in connection with our 2024 research on early childhood systems in Nevada, examines the current status of Pre-K education and answers vital questions about universal programming.

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