Oklahoma’s Pre-K program climbs to second in the nation

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – A National Institute for Early Education Research report shows Oklahoma’s Pre-K program now ranks 2nd best in the nation.

Oklahoma launched its Early Childhood Four-Year-Old Program in 1980.

By 2021, Oklahoma officials say its program served 74% of eligible 4-year-old children and 16% of eligible 3-year-old children through public Pre-K and Head Start.

“Oklahoma’s Pre-K program has a history of excellence because our educators know academic success begins with a strong start in reading and math,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister. “Oklahoma’s preschool program has weathered the pandemic far better than many other states, and I’m proud of our educators who have stayed focused on our youngest students.”

Officials say Oklahoma is one of the few states requiring Pre-K teachers to hold a bachelor’s degree with teaching certification.

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