Enhancing early education for next generation of soldiers

Some former military officials want more pre-kindergarten education because they see a connection between early education and finding qualified soldiers.

Some former military officials, including two generals from Pennsylvania, want more pre-kindergarten education because they see a connection between early education and finding qualified soldiers.

Nationally 75 percent of those eligible for military service do not meet the requirements. Lack of education, physical fitness or a criminal record keep them out. In Philadelphia the number goes as high as 90 percent. Dr Eugene Richard is a member of the Tuskegee Airman, who says education will keep a child out of jail.

“I think it should be clear to everyone that it is cheaper to educate than to incarcerate.”

Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams is also a Major in the US Army Reserves. He says it’s proven pre-kindergarten helps kids avoid the wrong path.

“There’s a direct relationship between the lack of education, the lack of economic opportunity and too many young people feeling they have lives of hopeless, frustration and despair.”

The group “Mission Readiness” says without better high school graduation rates, the military will have a tough time finding the next generation of soldiers.