Arkansas: Universal pre-kindergarten could yield $1.58 for every state dollar invested in Arkansas, according to a report that measures defrayed prison and health-care costs, among other future expenses. The study, Economic Analysis of Pre-K in Arkansas, indicates that pre-K funding could save state taxpayers money in future prison, public health and welfare costs.
The author of the report, Clive Belfield, an economist at Queens College in New York City, says the state will see even more benefits if it expanded the Arkansas Better Chance for School Success program to all 3- and 4-year-olds in the state. At least one state representative wants legislators to add $40 million during the coming session.
Pre-K funding aside, Arkansas' education funding has been found to be inadequate by the state's highest court. The Arkansas Supreme Court Nov. 27 says it isn't yet satisfied the Legislature had increased funding to the point it will help school districts provide adequate education for K-12 students.
The court has given the state 30 days to prove that the additional $132 million the Legislature approved for K-12 will make a difference.
Info: Clive Belfield, Queens College, 718/997-5000
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