Do we have any evidence that an investment in high-quality in the early childhood years will make a difference later on in school and in life?

Research demonstrates that high-quality preschool education can substantially increase children's chances of succeeding in school and in life. Children who attend high quality pre-kindergarten programs are less likely to be held back a grade, less likely to need special education and more likely to graduate high school. They are less involved in crime and delinquency. They also earn more as adults and are less likely to become dependent on welfare. Several studies (including those of the Perry Pre-School in Michigan, the Abecedarian Project in Chapel Hill, N.C., and the Chicago Child-Parent Centers) have documented the value of high-quality programs for disadvantaged children. While the strongest results have been shown for at-risk and low-income children, at least some positive effects extend to middle- and higher-income children.