NEA: Vital Stats

October 2007
	UpFront

When it comes to assessing how prepared children are for school, parents and teachers don’t always agree.

	Parents	Teachers
Children in the United States are extremely or very prepared when they enter kindergarten (they know basic counting, can spell their name, and listen in class).	25%	7%
Children were extremely or very well prepared to interact, play, and share well with others.	78%	13%
It is important for children to read and write the alphabet before starting school.	55%	32%
If children are not prepared for school when they enter kindergarten, it will be very easy or somewhat easy for them to catch up.	24%	15%
A child who enters kindergarten ready to learn is less likely to try drugs.	75%	52%
A child prepared upon entering kindergarten would be more likely to attend college.	78%	94%