Students are asked to answer simple math problems and identify letters and their sounds. Students’ self-regulation and interpersonal skills are also measured. Data are sorted by school districts and student groups.
The results highlighted opportunity gaps, with children from underserved populations scoring below the state average on every measure.
“Our Kindergarten Assessment results continue to underscore that our youngest children do not have access to the quality early learning they need,” Early Learning System Director Miriam Calderon said in a news release. “We’ve started to move this needle through the Student Success Act and need continued focus on providing supports that are proven to have a long-term impact for young children and families.”
The Student Success Act will provide approximately $200 million a year for early learning programs that school districts, education service districts and community colleges can tap into. Research shows early learning offers a high return on investment because it reduces the need for later interventions.
