Arizona Voters Support State Investment in High-Quality Early Childhood Education

(PHOENIX, AZ) In contrast to many other issues on which voters are divided, support remains overwhelming for state investment in high-quality early childhood education. Seventy-six percent of likely voters said they support the state investing in high-quality early childhood education opportunities for children from birth to five years old, according to a newly released survey completed by Moore Information Group.

Additionally, 66% of likely voters think the state should be doing more when it comes to ensuring children in Arizona begin kindergarten with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Other findings highlighted voters’ concern with quality, availability and the cost of early childhood education.

“When it comes to the impact of high-quality learning, the data is clear, and voters support the investment. We urge our elected leaders, the business community and other stakeholders to support high-quality early childhood education policies that are proven wins for children and Arizona,” said Melanie Mitros, PhD, chair of the Arizona Early Childhood Funders Collaborative. “Children who attend high-quality early childhood education programs are more likely to graduate from high school, continue with higher education, have higher earning ability and lasting health benefits.”

This survey confirms Arizona voters understand the connection between high-quality, affordable early childhood education and future educational performance. “Just as importantly, voters overwhelmingly support the state making this investment in Arizona’s children,” said Mitros. “The findings come despite – and maybe even more so because of – the challenges parents are facing due to the COVID pandemic this year.”

Moore Information Group conducted the survey of 400 live interviewees among a representative sample of likely voters statewide in Arizona Oct. 7 – 11, 2020.

The second annual survey was commissioned by the Arizona Early Childhood Funders Collaborative. An initiative of Arizona Grantmakers Forum, the collaborative is dedicated to exchanging and linking ideas, knowledge, research and resources to focus statewide attention on a seamless continuum of quality early childhood services that strengthen Arizona’s young children, families and communities.

To view the full survey results, visit www.BornToLearnAZ.com/survey.