Key Findings
A strong majority of voters support greater state and local government focus on early childhood development and education efforts:
- 80% favor changing the focus of child care to an early childhood education environment by raising standards for child care workers, providing money for training and professional development, and increasing salaries.
- 76% favor providing funds to make voluntary, all-day kindergarten available to all 5 year olds.
- 75% favor providing funds to make voluntary, high quality preschool available to all 3 and 4 year olds.
Strong majorities also agree with the basic arguments in support of strengthening early learning and care:
- 93% agree that early childhood experiences affect later learning.
- 78% agree that quality early childhood education prevents crime.
In addition, strong majorities also support an expanded government/taxpayer role in early learning and care:
- 80% agree that tax dollars should be used to support learning programs for young children.
More To Read
May 2, 2024
Baby Bonds: A Step Toward Racial and Economic Equity
The Washington Future Fund would bring this innovative, anti-racist policy to the Evergreen State
May 1, 2024
Laws Targeting LGBTQ Youth Aren’t Just Bad for Kids – They’re Bad For The Economy
The harm done by anti-LGBTQ laws expands so much further than queer children and teens
April 26, 2024
What is WA Cares and Why Does It Matter for Washingtonians?
We need to defend this important policy from billionaires looking to save a buck