Researchers find kindergarten readiness test can predict early school success
educationdive | October 16, 2019
According to researchers at the University of Missouri, who examined test results from 350 students at six elementary schools, a kindergarten readiness test can accurately predict how well a student will do 18 months later, District Administration reports. The readiness test is a tool designed to help teachers create lessons and intervention plans for those whose results indicate they will have difficulties, and parents can participate in the process by teaching their child school-ready behaviors like taking turns and following directions. Kindergartners with lower test results were more likely to exhibit disruptive behavior and have lower reading scores, and Special Education Professor Melissa Stormont notes kindergarten is a critical period that launches students toward longterm academic success, making identifying struggling students all the more important. Early-childhood education is a critical but often overlooked component in students’ academic development. As a result, gearing future students up with more pre-K opportunities is something superintendents are often expected to oversee. To set the pace, AASA, The School Superintendents Association, is conducting case studies to analyze the needs of young learners before they set foot in public schools.