I was disappointed to learn that only 38% of 4-year-olds in Lake County are enrolled in preschool (“Study gives state bad marks,” Record-Bee, 1/8/09). It concerns me as a Police Chief because I know that kids who get a quality early education are less likely to get in trouble with the law later in life.
Children who receive an effective preschool experience learn the basic social and academic skills necessary for future success. They also learn respect for authority and how to resolve conflicts with their peers ? life lessons that ultimately keep them on the right path. According to Fight Crime: Invest in Kids, children who attend preschool are also more likely to graduate from high school and less likely to ever be arrested.
What we need now is the ability to expand preschool access here in Lake County and throughout California and this must be done through federal and state investments. Although were in tough financial times, our legislative leaders have an opportunity to make early childhood education a priority by building these investments into an economic stimulus package.
Investing in early education is good for our economy because it creates more jobs and provides a safe place for kids to go while parents are at work. It”s also good in the long run because successful students grow up to become productive, law-abiding adults. It”s the kind of investment that will pay dividends for years to come.
Kevin Burke
Chief of Police, Lakeport
