Low allowable growth for the last several years has forced a reallocation of existing resources within Iowa's schools, pitting program against program and student need against student need. Teacher pay has not kept pace. Brain research tells us that the most important developmental years of a child's life are from birth through age 5. These nationally accredited programs have trained professional staff implementing research-based learning strategies. Investing in high quality preschool programs is an investment in Iowa's future.
Clear research indicates that success in school starts with quality child development.
Success in school translates into a broad range of professional and personal opportunities and a higher quality of life. 83.2 percent of Iowa parents of school-age children work. Iowa ranks the highest out of all 50 states. Iowa's limited English proficiency enrollment has increased 14.2 percent each year since 1987-88. 27 out of 100 students are eligible for free and reduced price meals.