Full-day pre-K yields high return

As Florida legislators grapple with budget priorities, one investment stands out as both economically wise and socially beneficial: full-day prekindergarten (Pre-K). Research overwhelmingly supports the notion that a high quality, full-day Pre-K program provides children with stronger academic foundations, greater social-emotional development and better long-term outcomes. 

Twenty years ago, Florida was one of the first states in the country to offer free Pre-K for all 4-year-olds regardless of family income. However, this program, known as Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK), currently only covers a half-day of instruction during the school year or a total of 300 instructional hours for a summer program. This means parents must pick up their children in the middle of the day or pay the preschool for the balance of the day, adding an economic burden that many families in our community cannot afford.

A landmark study from the University of Minnesota found that full-day Pre-K students scored better in literacy and math than their half-day counterparts. This aligns with findings from the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER), which concluded that full-day Pre-K offers nearly twice the learning gains of half-day programs. More time in the classroom means more exposure to language-rich environments, structured play and critical early learning experiences. Young children thrive on routine, and a full school day also allows educators to engage in deeper social-emotional learning, conflict resolution and peer interaction. These skills are crucial not only for kindergarten success, but for long-term emotional well-being and workforce readiness.

The economic benefits are equally compelling. A report from the Learning Policy Institute highlights that for every dollar invested in high-quality Pre-K, states can expect a return of $7 to $10 due to reduced special education costs, lower crime rates and higher future earnings. Additionally, full-day programs better accommodate working families, reducing childcare costs and enabling parents to maintain stable employment — an economic boost in itself. According to the Florida Chamber of Commerce, nearly $5.4 billion in economic value is lost annually in Florida due to working parents having to be away from their jobs to care for children under the age of six. Full-day VPK allows parents to remain in the workforce, contributing to economic growth and stability. Employers also benefit, as increased workforce participation leads to lower absenteeism and higher employee retention rates.

As members of the Manatee Childcare Alliance representing education, nonprofit, philanthropy, and business, we encourage our state delegation to support legislation this session that allows for a VPK expansion to a full-day program. Investing in VPK will support our students, schools, employers and working families  — ensuring a stronger, more prosperous Florida for generations to come.

Manatee Childcare Alliance

Ashley Brown, Women’s Resource Center

Heather Felton, Manatee County School Board, District 1

Darrell King, Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County

Brittany Lamont, Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance

Veronica Thames, Manatee Community Foundation