Preschool Students Face Cuts From State, Parents

School funding is a big challenge all over the state right now and it may end up hurting the youngest students as cuts are now hitting the pre-school level.

Many states are reducing or eliminating early education. New Mexico recently cut pre-K spending and at least 11 other states are considering the same action.

“It’s unfortunate because they’re going to find that their education system is going down,” said Robert Craven, The Learning Tree principal.

However, that’s not the case here in the valley, but the economy is still taking its toll on local preschools. As parents loose their jobs and struggle to make ends meet, preschool may not fit the budget.

“The first thing that goes is a private setting or something extra,” said Craven. ” I don’t think education is extra, it should be a paramount decision.”

Craven said that last year, many parents took their kids out of preschool because they couldn’t afford it.

“You find other parents, relatives or other arrangements for your children,” said Craven.

Craven said although it saves money, the children pay a price.

“In our society you have to give them an education at an early age or they will fall behind,” said Craven.

Craven said, children who go to preschool have better vocabulary, math, reading and socialization skills.

“You can only have so much socialization in a family setting,” said Craven.

He said local parents are beginning to realize this. As a result, enrollment is back up and so is the outlook for the little students who are preparing to tackle the future.