Department of Education
Dr. Tim Webb, Commissioner

"I'm gratified that Tennessee is being recognized for taking a wise, long-range view of pre-K," Bredesen said. "Education experts understand that, dollar for dollar, pre-K is the single best investment we can make in our kids' future. I'm committed to making it an option for all parents and families who want their children to attend, regardless of class or economic status."

"I believe the groundwork for a solid education begins with quality pre-K programs, and I would like to ask for all Tennesseans' help in ensuring the continued expansion of an initiative that dollar for dollar is the single best investment we can make in our children."

"Long term, pre-K is just as important as standards, community college or any of the other things we believe will yield even more immediate dividends. On the national level, long-term studies have been done, and the evidence is there to support the continued benefits of the program. The overwhelming thing these studies tell us is that pre-K not only gives children a head-start in school, but that it helps them develop social skills that lead to success later in life."

"Dollar for dollar pre-K is one of the best investments we can make in the future of our children," Governor Phil Bredesen said. "There is a growing demand in our communities to provide this quality program to more families. This report confirms that the pre-K program we are building in Tennessee is high quality and beneficial to our public education system."

"This survey demonstrates the demand and desire for more families to have access to high quality pre-K education," Governor Phil Bredesen said. "Quality pre-K classrooms are one of the best investments we can make in the education of children in Tennessee, and every family deserves access to educational opportunities like pre-K that prepare their children to succeed in school."