Date of Award

6-15-2024

Document Type

Dissertation in Practice

Degree Name

Ed.D.

Organizational Unit

Morgridge College of Education, Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

First Advisor

Lolita Tabron

Second Advisor

Kristina Hesbol

Third Advisor

Erin Anderson

Keywords

Access to preschool, Critical policy analysis, Early childhood education, Education policy, Universal preschool

Abstract

High-quality preschool experiences are essential for preparing four-year-old children for a successful transition to kindergarten, benefiting them academically, emotionally, socially, and physically. However, access to such preschools remains limited, particularly for children from marginalized communities. This qualitative critical policy analysis examines transitioning from the targeted Colorado Preschool Program (CPP) to a universal preschool approach through the 2022 Colorado House Bill 1295: Department of Early Childhood and Universal Preschool Program. Drawing on Young and Diem's (2017) framework for critical policy analysis, this study explores the roots, development, and potential implications of the universal preschool policy.

This study analyzes documents and audio sources to provide insight into Colorado's political and historical context. It highlights the intentions behind the transition and the challenges it aims to address. While the universal preschool policy seeks to create a more equitable early education system, funding priorities may perpetuate inequities for historically marginalized populations and their families.

This research offers guidance for jurisdictions transitioning from targeted to universal preschool programs, with specific recommendations for Colorado. Suggestions include a phased approach, comprehensive targeted universal strategies, adequate funding based on individual needs, and collaborative data evaluation. Future studies should focus on implementing the universal preschool program in Colorado and conducting policy analyses of similar initiatives in other jurisdictions.

Copyright Date

6-2024

Copyright Statement / License for Reuse

All Rights Reserved
All Rights Reserved.

Publication Statement

Copyright is held by the author. User is responsible for all copyright compliance.

Rights Holder

Jamita Horton

Provenance

Received from ProQuest

File Format

application/pdf

Language

English (eng)

Extent

176 pgs

File Size

1.1 MB

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