Colorado is evaluating its universal preschool program amid debates over class sizes and staff-to-student ratios. Currently, classes can have up to 24 children with one staff member per 12 students, but there’s controversy whether this compromises quality. Many experts advocate for smaller classes (capped at 20) and better ratios (1 to 10), arguing this enhances preschool quality. Despite initial plans to phase in these changes by 2025, there’s resistance, especially from private providers citing financial strain and potential tuition hikes. The decision, due by March 28, rests with Lisa Roy of the Colorado Department of Early Childhood, balancing child welfare with economic realities of early education.
https://www.chalkbeat.org/colorado/2024/02/23/colorado-universal-preschool-class-size-debate
