pThe Oct. 4 Phoenix contained a candidate’s statement entitled, “Pre-K would help families and budget.” The candidate’s idea would be for the state (taxpayer) to establish a universal Pre-K education program.

This fine sounding idea would create a government program not primarily for the educational benefit that a Pre-K program might bring, but as a subsidy to parents who must pay for day care.

Contrary to what the candidate asserts, there are many studies that indicate that Pre-K education over time does not show any appreciable benefit. To focus on an educational program like Pre-K as a way to relieve financial stress is a misuse of scarce funding for education, not to mention the non-trivial issue of where the money for this program would come from.

The candidate suggests that every dollar spent (by the government) “returns at least $3 in increased spending and savings on food, housing and other programs.” If this economic magic were true, all we need is for the government to give out more money to make a 300 percent return.

To suggest such a program without a practical discussion of funding is irresponsible at best.

Mike Byrnes

Bristol