Jefferson City News

A recent study published in the Early Childhood Research Quarterly highlights the positive impact of the Missouri Parents as Teachers (PAT) Parent Education Program on young children's academic outcomes. The research shows a significant association between participation in the program and improved proficiency in third-grade math and English language arts.

Karla Eslinger, Commissioner of Education, remarked on the program's long-standing success: “The PAT program celebrated 40 years last week and has an incredible history with the dedicated work of founder Mildred Winter, our department, and lawmakers starting PAT in every school district in Missouri.” She emphasized the importance of early learning opportunities, stating that programs like PAT are crucial for preparing children for kindergarten.

The findings suggest that participation in the Missouri PAT Parent Education Program enhances children's likelihood of achieving proficient scores on Missouri Assessment Program (MAP) tests. It also increases the chances of receiving individualized education program (IEP) services earlier. Additionally, there are cost-saving benefits for school districts through improved attendance rates from kindergarten to third grade and a reduced need for students to repeat grades. Children who had more frequent PAT visits generally performed better than those with fewer visits.

The study included various school districts such as Belton 124, Branson R-IV, Cameron R-I, Carthage R-IX, Centralia R-VI, Clever R-V, Columbia 93, Dexter R-XI, El Dorado Springs R-II, Farmington R-VII, Ferguson-Florissant R-II, Fort Osage R-I, Francis Howell R-III, Hannibal 60, Independence 30, Jackson R-II, Joplin Schools, Kearney R-I, Mehlville, Mexico 59, Moberly, Palmyra R-I, Pleasant Hill R-III, Riverview Gardens, Rockwood, Rolla 31, Sikeston R-6 and Springfield R-XII.

For more information about the Missouri PAT Parent Education Program visit the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s website.