TY  - JOUR
AB  - We describe state-funded pre-kindergarten (pre-K) expansion in the modern era from 2002 to 2024, documenting patterns of investment and reach. Although spending and enrollment increased substantially, states pursued widely varying expansion strategies. A 200% increase in pre-K enrollment did not reduce spending on enrolled children. Instead, we observed an average increase of 21% in per-pupil spending. Overall enrollment rates in any form of preschool (including the private market) did not differ between states offering universal and means-tested (targeted) programs, though states with universal eligibility saw more children enroll in the state-supported programs. Preschool enrollment of children from low-income families did not differ across universal and means-tested programs. Observable state characteristics did not predict pre-K investment. Implications for policy are discussed.
AU  - Moran, Casey 
AU  - Rosengarten, Mindy L. 
AU  - Cha, Eunho 
AU  - Jenkins, Jade M. 
AU  - Dodge, Kenneth A. 
AU  - Friedman-Kraus, Allison 
AU  - Barnett, W. Steven 
AU  - Watts, Tyler W. 
PY  - 2026
ST  - 23 Years of State Pre-K Expansion: How States Balance Investment, Access, and Quality in the Modern Era
TI  - 23 Years of State Pre-K Expansion: How States Balance Investment, Access, and Quality in the Modern Era
UR  - http://www.edworkingpapers.com/ai26-1541
ER  -