Business leaders back early education as economic development

FEBRUARY 6, 2012

Jim Clair says four years ago he was probably the least likely person to become involved in early childhood education.

That moment was spurred by a report indicating 90% of core brain development occurs by the time a child is 3 years old.Children who are nurtured and educated during those formative pre-kinder­garten years are more likely to succeed in school and the workplace.

"A wise investment is to deploy resources when they're going to be used at their most efficient and effective," says Clair, noting the concentration of cognitive development in preschool children.

Laurie Lachance, MDF executive director, believes an entry-level kindergarten assessment is needed, so struggling children can get help sooner. She also believes a "global budget" for education, covering birth through college, is needed.

While state legislators struggle to close budget deficits, Clair says the key is seeking a market-driven solution. That begins by creating a demand for better early learning experiences for children.

"In many ways, I consider this a very forward-thinking initiative," he says. "We're really trying to think about where we want to be 15, 20, 25 years from now as a group."

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