NASHVILLE (AP) - An early assessment of Tennessee's pre-kindergarten initiative shows the program is beneficial, but critics say it's still too early to gauge its effectiveness.

A research group commissioned by the state to study the program told the Senate Education Committee Wednesday there are some short- and long-term benefits associated with it.

The report is the first of a three-year study from 2007-2010.

Sen. Bo Watson, R-Hixson, says the study is still in its beginning stages but does give lawmakers an idea of how the state is doing.

Gov. Phil Bredesen has budgeted $25 million to create up to 250 new pre-K classes and has said he wants to grant universal access to pre-K programs before he leaves office in 2010.

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