This report presents preliminary findings of a 5-year study evaluating the effectiveness of state-funded prekindergarten programs in Texas. The two components of the study included in this report are (1) a statewide survey of 507 school districts, focusing on prekindergarten program characteristics, implementation, and parents' perceptions of the programs, and (2) a case study of 10 schools providing prekindergarten programs. Results from the third component, a longitudinal study of 2,000 students enrolled in prekindergarten during the 1989-90 school year through 1993-94, were not included in this report. The report is divided into eight chapters, each of which focuses on a recurrent theme found in the data analysis. Chapter topics include: (1) program implementation; (2) program framework; (3) limited English proficient students; (4) prekindergarten environment; (5) prekindergarten staff; (6) coordination of services; (7) parents and the prekindergarten program; and (8) student assessment and program evaluation. Each chapter includes relevant criteria established by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, findings summarizing the data, findings by data source from the statewide survey and case study, if applicable, and preliminary recommendations based on the findings. Appendixes contain a literature review on early childhood developmentally appropriate programing; district and campus statewide survey instruments; a list of districts and campuses participating in the case study; and the case study instrument. (MM)