States Considering School for 4-Year Olds

Lawmakers in several states are considering ramping up early childhood education for 4 year olds from poor homes.

Indiana is one where last week the state House of Representatives approved creation of a pilot program in five counties.

House Speaker Brian Bosma went to the microphone himself to urge lawmakers, specifically conservative lawmakers, to get behind this effort. He claimed statistics show that without early help, many poor children never finish school, and some will end up in prison.

But Micah Clark, executive director of AFA Indiana rejects that argument saying it is ridiculous and irresponsible to tell voters that this will help kids in Junior High and High School when any benefits of preschool disappear by the 3rd grade.

He also points out taxpayers have spent $180 billion dollars on this idea over the last 40 years.