Nestled between the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains & Salt Lake City, the University of Utah excels at research, innovation & student success.

Core values

- The program targets severely at-risk 4-year-olds, reducing the need for costly special education programs, which is a significant societal need[1][2].
- The program has shown that only 10% of the children who were initially determined to be at risk for needing special education services actually needed them, saving the state $2.5 million and projecting long-term savings of $18 million in special education costs[1].
- The program has been praised for its innovative financing model, known as "pay for success," which ensures that government funds are used only for programs that demonstrate measurable success. This model is being replicated and has garnered federal support[1][2].
- By providing high-quality preschool education, the program contributes to better health, education, and social outcomes for the children involved, which in turn benefits the broader community by reducing future costs associated with health, education, and criminal justice[1][2].