Description:
Many intervening factors help to create a mismatch between the number of children whose parents would like for them to enroll in Georgia pre-kindergarten (Pre-K) and the number who enroll. Oversupply of Pre-K slots, observed as classrooms with empty Pre-K slots, could be considered as resources better used elsewhere. Undersupply of Georgia Pre-K, observed as children who would like to participate in Georgia Pre-K but are not able to enroll, results in families who are not able to gain access. This policy report examines the potential factors that Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) might consider when allocating new Pre-K grant awards. The critical variables are the changes in the population of 4-year-olds, the numbers and types of Georgia Pre-K providers in the market, and availability of credentialed teachers. The analysis is generated using data provided by DECAL on final Pre-K roster counts, licensed provider locations, and Pre-K teacher credentials. Age 4 population data was obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER). Tract level demographic data was obtained from the American Community Survey's (ACS) five-year summary files. (author abstract)
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