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We estimate the causal impacts of universal preschool by leveraging
a quasi-experimental design based on Israel’s implementation of free
public preschool for children ages 3 and 4 beginning in September
1999. We focus on the Arab population, who were the main
beneficiaries of the first phase of the Law’s implementation. Using a
difference-in-differences research design, we find that universal
preschool enhanced individuals’ academic performance from
elementary school through high school, improved the learning
environment, and increased postsecondary enrollment. Additional
benefits include reduced juvenile delinquency among males and
decreased early marriage among females.
