Early education

Early education is critical to the future development of children. However, in times when most states -- including Missouri -- are facing tight budgets, fully funding quality education programs is not always an option.

As was pointed out in a recent story by the Southeast Missourian's M.D. Kittle, research shows that 85 percent of the brain's core structures are formed by the age of 3.

A recent report to the Missouri State Board of Education by Kathy Thornburg, assistant commissioner for the Office of Early and Extended Learning at the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, points out that 88 percent of children with reading problems at the end of the first grade have similar problems at the end of the fourth grade, and 75 percent of poor readers in third grade will be poor readers in high school. Knowing these statistics, it's even more startling to learn that, according to the recent National Assessment of Educational Progress, 64 percent of Missouri's fourth-grade public school students are below the proficiency level in reading.

So the question remains: What can be done to make sure children are academically prepared during their early years?

As far as state programs go, taxpayers are faced with two choices: 1) raise taxes -- a difficult proposition to make, especially during these economic times; or 2) cut other programs.

While neither option is appealing, there are other ways to help children during their early years.

Parents play a critical role in their child's education. Turning off the TV and reading to your child frequently is among the most important contributions you can make. There are many resources for parents to find out the best ways to encourage learning in their children, and help parents determine whether a child is meeting important milestones.

Although parents and teachers play a critical role in the education process, members of the community can also find ways to help. The Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce has a program titled Partners in Education. In this program, businesses can sign up to partner with a local school. The partner's involvement can range from helping the school with resources to volunteering in programs.

Another way to get involved is through Junior Achievement, a not-for-profit organization that hosts quality programs for students. Programs on a wide variety of subjects are offered, including those on business, citizenship and financial literacy -- just to name a few.

Some public programs addressing children who are not meeting milestones are important and have long-range impacts on a child meeting his or her academic potential. Nevertheless, tough decisions, including cuts, are sometimes necessary and require those involved -- from parents to providers -- to reassess the situation and seek options that will put their child on a path to success.