Bogus Report Likely Cited by Gard's Bogus Task Force

Last week we focused on the fact that the Republican Party of Wisconsin would like to eliminate our state's 4-K program. We also discussed John Gard's "task force" and how it likely is being formed to come to this same conclusion.

To accomplish their predetermined goals, you can now expect that the foes of kindergarteners will cite a new study by the Reason Foundation. The study claims (surprise, surprise) that 4-K and similar programs are unnecessary.

Thanks to an evaluation of the study done by the Great Lakes Center, we can feel quite confidant in dismissing it's conclusions. The Great Lakes analysis of the study reveals some of the following in a recent statement:

W. Stephen Barnett, Rutgers University Professor and National Institute for Early Education Research Director reviewed, "Assessing Proposals for Preschool and Kindergarten: Essential Information for Parents, Taxpayers and Policymakers." Though some of the report's findings have merit, Barnett says that overall, the report, "...misleads the reader, relying on distortions, selective citation of research and inconsistent use of standards for quality research."

Barnett agrees with the report's conclusion that a need exists for more assessment of the impact made by pre-school and kindergarten programs. He says, however, that this conclusion is at odds with the authors finding that these programs have no lasting educational effects on children. To the contrary, there is a large and convincing body of evidence which proves otherwise.

Misleading? Distortion? Selective? Why that sounds like any number of Gard initiated task forces. At least with this latest one we have a heads up as to their probable argument and rationale.

Take a look at Great Lake's complete analysis HERE in this 8 page pdf document.