The Promise of Preschool

This work illuminates the complexity of the issues, processes, and personages involved in early childhood policy in a way that is thoughtful, readable, and sensitive to the contradictory demands and competing concerns with which policy makers, educators, and parents have to contend. It greatly expands our understanding of early childhood policy over the last 45 years and should top reading lists for stakeholders and students alike. * Kristen Nawrotski, History of Education Quarterly *
The Promise of Preschool is more important now than ever before. Local, state and federal policymakers are looking at the promise" of early childhood to help close the achievement gap. The discussion is no longer whether early childhood matters, but how do we expand access and improve quality for all children? Elizabeth Rose's historical look at the field - and its patchwork of services - provides an invaluable resource for policymakers and academics. As a State Senator, I read the book with interest and recommend it to colleagues interested in understanding early childhood education. * Beth Bye, Connecticut State Senator, 5th District *
The Promise of Preschool is the most complete history of the preschool education movement written to date. Plus, the author even-handedly discusses the remaining issues that must be resolved before the full potential of preschool can be realized. * Edward Zigler, Sterling Professor of Psychology, Emeritus, Yale University, and founder of Head Start *
It is rare to find in one volume acute historical analysis and good sense about current questions of public policy. The Promise of Preschool offers both, told in the form of a lively narrative. It's a book that should be read not only by scholars and advocates, but also by all who care about children and the futures they will create for all of us. * Ellen Condliffe Lagemann, Levy Institute Research Professor, Bard College *
Beautifully and accessibly written, The Promise of Preschool is a spectacular piece of scholarship. A highly original analysis, the book is a goldmine for anyone who wants to understand one of the most important issues in America today. Rose carefully examines the strengths and weaknesses of each side of the debate and provides a much needed voice of mediation in the battle over how to move forward in the rapidly growing world of preschool education. Anyone interested in the future of education should read this book. Our children and our country can't wait. * Barbara Beatty, Professor of Education, Wellesley College, and author of Preschool Education in America *