Description of Indicator
This indicator examines a region’s population of children aged 3-4 years and enrolled in publicly funded pre-K programs. Enrollments are categorized by the type of pre-K program and county.
Why is it important?
Pre-K is designed to acclimate children to school and introduce them to concepts such as working with classmates, basic math and reading skills, and expressions of creativity. These experiences facilitate early childhood development. Although there are other options beyond publicly funded Pre-K, they do carry costs, and there is a shortage of providers.
How is the region performing?
Lackawanna, Luzerne, and Wayne Counties have all experienced increases in the percentages of children served compared to prior years. Wyoming County saw a slight decrease compared to last year but continued to trend upward. Percent of children served is still low and many providers have wait lists.