Presidential Promises and Preschool Education

In the Aug/Sept issue of Edutopia, writer Shari Wargo takes a look at the 2008 candidates stand on education. Both support revisions in the No Child Left Behind Act, more funding for technology, and core focus on science and math curriculum.

Of great interest to us is their approach to early childhood education...it seems both candiates still have to think through their views on this topic.

According to Edutopia, Obama's plan for early childhood education includes a $10 billion plan that would promote a "zero to five" effort, improve & maintain Head Start, and provide funds for universal preschool. Read more about the plan for education online at: http://www.barackobama.com/issues/education/#early-childhood,


Wargo writes that McCain's plan increases funding for Head Start programs. Read more about the plan for education online at: http://www.johnmccain.com/Informing/News/PressReleases/read.aspx?guid=2ca6f926-4564-4301-87cd-a5f35e68c0d4

• Please share your experiences in the field. What are your thoughts?
• Can you share a better link to the plans for either candidate?
• Do these plans sound realistic to you?
• Do you believe that increased funding would benefit your program?

Reference: Wargo, Shari. 2008. Hail to the Chief. Edutopia.com, Aug/Sep 2008. San Francisco, CA: tThe Goerge Lucas Educational Foundation.