# Miami-Dade Pre-K Students Outperform Peers in 18-Year Study

> Miami-Dade public school pre-K students outperformed peers in reading and math by eighth grade, according to an 18-year study of 27,814 students.
- Title: Miami-Dade Pre-K Students Outperform Peers in 18-Year Study
- Summary: Miami-Dade public school pre-K students outperformed peers in reading and math by eighth grade, according to an 18-year study of 27,814 students. Students…
- Keywords: miami-dade, public school pre-k, reading scores, math scores, gpa, third grade, eighth grade, standardized tests, kindergarten, elementary school, preschool, child care
- Source: The Conversation — https://theconversation.com/students-who-attended-miami-dade-public-school-pre-k-outperformed-peers-in-18-year-study-288884
- Author: Adam Winsler
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: miami-dade, public school pre-k, reading scores, math scores, gpa, third grade, eighth grade, standardized tests, kindergarten, elementary school, preschool, child care
## Study Finds Pre-K Type Impacts Long-Term Outcomes
Researchers tracked 27,814 Miami-Dade students from pre-K through high school for 18 years.
## Public School Pre-K Shows Strongest Results
Students in public school pre-K programs achieved the highest third-grade reading and math scores and GPA compared to center-based or family childcare peers.
## 35% Less Likely to Be Held Back
Public school pre-K students were 35% less likely to be held back in third grade than children in other pre-K programs.
## Quality of Elementary Schools Matters Less
Higher-quality elementary schools improved reading skills for center-based care students but not public school pre-K students.
## Public School Pre-K Benefits from Systemic Strengths
Public school pre-K programs used collective resources including teacher qualifications, standardized curriculum, and seamless academic record transfers.
## Teacher Certification and Experience
Public pre-K teachers typically had bachelor’s degrees and teaching credentials, allowing them to teach from pre-K to third grade.
## Continuity in Education System
Miami-Dade’s countywide system enabled smooth transitions between schools and consistent curriculum for students.
## Center-Based Care Improves Over Time
Center-based childcare quality has increased significantly since 2002 with more accredited centers and better teacher education.
## Public Pre-K Still Best for Long-Term Success
Public school pre-K remains the gold standard for long-term academic success in Miami-Dade County.
## Benefits Extend Through Eighth Grade
The study found long-term benefits of public school pre-K extend through eighth grade, though high school results are pending.
## Key takeaway

Students who attended Miami-Dade public school pre-K programs scored higher on standardized tests and had better grade retention through eighth grade compared to center-based or family childcare peers.