After 25 years of Abbott, a look at lessons learned and the future of preschool in New Jersey
Sep 20 2024
New Jersey marks the 25th anniversary of the Abbott preschool program. Established following a landmark court ruling, this initiative aimed to provide high-quality early education to children in underprivileged communities.
Dr. Janine Walker Caffrey, an education policy expert, commented on the program's impact: "The Abbott program has been transformative for many children in New Jersey. It has provided them with opportunities they might not have had otherwise."
The program was initiated as a result of the New Jersey Supreme Court's decision in Abbott v. Burke, which mandated that children in the state's poorest districts receive early childhood education comparable to that offered in wealthier areas.
Mary Jane Kurabinski, who has taught in an Abbott classroom since its inception, shared her experiences: "I've seen firsthand how access to quality preschool can change lives. The kids are more prepared when they start kindergarten."
Despite its successes, challenges remain. Funding is a perennial issue, and there are ongoing debates about how best to measure and ensure quality across all programs.
State Education Commissioner Dr. Lamont Repollet emphasized the importance of continued investment: "We must continue to support and expand these programs if we want all our children to succeed."
As New Jersey looks ahead, policymakers and educators alike are considering ways to build on the success of Abbott while addressing its shortcomings.
"We need to think about sustainability," said Dr. Willa Spicer, former Deputy Commissioner of Education. "How do we ensure that these programs can continue to serve future generations?"
The anniversary serves as both a celebration of past achievements and a call to action for future improvements in early childhood education across New Jersey.
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