The study found that students who had participated in Tulsa’s state-funded preschool programs were more likely to attend school more days, enroll in different types of courses, and challenge themselves academically in high school. These behavioral indicators are powerful predictors of graduation, even if they do not translate to higher GPAs or test scores.
Preschool Participation and High School Outcomes
The study examined the long-term effects of Tulsa’s state-funded preschool program. Researchers found that students who had attended the preschool program were more likely to:
Attend school more days
Students who had participated in the preschool program were absent from school fewer days in high school compared to their peers who did not attend the program.
Enroll in different types of courses
Preschool participants were more likely to enroll in advanced courses, such as Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate classes, in high school.
Challenge themselves academically
Students who had attended the preschool program were more likely to take on academic challenges in high school, such as enrolling in more rigorous courses.
These behaviors, while not necessarily reflected in higher test scores or GPAs, are strong predictors of high school graduation. The study suggests that the benefits of high-quality preschool programs can extend well into a student’s academic career.