Critical Reasoning

Universal preschool is a misguided use of public funds. This early academic focus will undermine the social, emotional, and mental development associated with a carefree early childhood. Furthermore, the economic burden on the state to fund such an ambitious undertaking will be overwhelming in both the short-term and long-term, since the state has no way to offset the program’s costs.

Which of the following, if true, most weakens the idea that universal preschool will be an economic burden on the state?

(A) Students who attend preschool are more likely to complete high school than students who do not attend preschool.

(B) Preschool educated children fare much better in kindergarten than do children without preschool.

(C) Part of the high cost of universal preschool stems from its requirement that preschool teachers must have a bachelor's degree and a teaching credential.

(D) The taxes necessary to fund universal preschool can come from a variety of sources, including property taxes and bond measures.

(E) Students who attend preschool are less likely to require special education, an expensive public service.


OA E

Source: Manhattan Prep