Description:
This report is the second of two studies conducted by the Urban Institute to better understand barriers to low-income children of immigrants participating in higher-quality preschool programs in San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties (which make up most of Silicon Valley). The first study (Hanson, Adams, and Koball 2016) provides both context and motivation for the data analyzed here. It examines the demographic characteristics and preschool participation of children from low-income families in San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties, using data from the 2008-2012 American Community Survey. As summarized in box 1, the report highlights discrepancies in preschool enrollment between lower- and higher-income children in Silicon Valley and describes the high proportion of low-income children whose parents are immigrants. It also provides insights into these families' characteristics and residential patterns. Findings from the companion report lay the groundwork for this study, which focuses on the particular barriers to preschool participation facing low-income immigrant families. Together with our companion report, this study is designed to shed light on preschool participation among low-income immigrant families in Silicon Valley. We examine a broad range of barriers to access and participation, including those related to information, the logistical aspects of enrollment, supply and capacity, preferences for preschool, and issues of cultural and linguistic sensitivity that make programs more or less welcoming to immigrant families. We also asked respondents to identify possible strategies for addressing these barriers, as well as organizations that might be well positioned to pursue these strategies. Because the challenges faced in Silicon Valley are common to other communities experiencing demographic change, the insights from this report are also relevant to many communities across the country. (author abstract)
Resource Type:
Reports & Papers
Publisher(s):
Funder(s):
Country:
United States
State(s)/Territories/Tribal Nation(s):
California