Many stories in state newspapers are highlighting improvements and budgetary allocations for early childhood state programs. For someone who believes early childhood education is the key, I am quite honestly thrilled! Many of these states are strapped for funds but are finding ways to make education a priority. In the comment sections following the articles many parents are critical of these programs because they are just for the “poor” or they say something like “thank goodness for this new bill because I am not going to pay for something I already pay for through taxes.”
OK – so how important is education on your family’s priority list? Is it really so trivial that parents can wait to begin education when the state starts paying for the programs, which in most states is 5 year old kindergarten unless you fall into the low-income category or if your child has special needs?
I can’t help but cringe when I hear people speak of not wanting to or not being willing to sacrifice for their child’s education. Let’s think about everybody who has become anybody in this world – what catapulted them to their place in society? EDUCATION did! Education is the single biggest investment a family can make for prolonged success, happiness and freedom from poverty. Let’s also think about how we treat things that we don’t pay up front for – the way I treat a house I am renting may not be the way I would treat something I pay for as an asset each month? If I get a product or service for free I am likely to take advantage of it or treat it with less care as one I paid hard earned money for?
So often we think of education as something that is “free.” We do pay for education and if we only depend on what the government (our taxes) pays for, then we certainly will get what we paid for.” I just pulled out my property tax bill from 2007 to see exactly how much I invested in my child’s local education, assuming I only invest what I pay in property taxes. Mind you, I am a parent who looks forward to an Ivy League college graduate when my son exits college, therefore mediocre is beyond unacceptable for me. I paid a total of $323.00 in school taxes last year. As far as state income tax, I received a hefty return on what I paid the state government so not much was paid there either. So… if I depend solely on the government to educate my child, I will get just what I paid for – a $323.00 education. Maybe it is just me, but that is simply unacceptable.
What is my child’s education worth? It is worth whatever I have to pay to provide him with individualized attention, rigor, opportunities and global experiences. I must prioritize where I spend my money and think about the sacrifices I can make to offer him rich experiences that are over and beyond the mediocre education I invest in through taxes each year. Go ahead… figure out how much your child’s education is worth.
Preschool is a wonderful opportunity for your child to learn to get along with others, figure out how the world works, learn basic skills and develop attitudes about school. Every child should have the opportunity to attend the absolute best preschool because it is a family’s priority. Early education is the key – begin from birth creating your family’s plan and acting on it!
Posted by tracey bryant stuckey 
