PHL- PreK Benchmarking the Program's Design

In our research, we found higher-quality preschool programs yield larger, more persistent benefits for children's learning and development, primarily through positive and stimulating interactions. Structural features like group size, teacher qualifications, and staff-to-child ratios create conditions for quality but don't guarantee success. Continuous improvement systems using feedback can raise and maintain quality over time.

PHLpreK incorporates essential features such as early learning standards, specialized training, and appropriate class sizes and ratios. However, challenges back in 2018 included inconsistent curriculum choices and misaligned child assessments, curriculum, professional development, and evaluation. Encouraging the use of fewer curricula and improving alignment was recommended to enhance support for continuous improvement.