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The Utah Legislature would do a service to the children of Utah, especially those considered disadvantaged and at risk, by approving the option of voluntary full-day kindergarten in the state's public schools.
National research over the years has demonstrated the value for certain children of a full-day education experience at the kindergarten level. Most recently, a new study in the respected American Journal of Education concludes "that children who attend schools that offer full-day (kindergarten) programs learn more in literacy and mathematics than their half-day counterparts."
Lawmakers are being asked to appropriate $7 million in ongoing money to help districts cover the cost of additional teachers and other needs to accommodate the kids. In KSL's view, it would be money well spent. Studies also suggest full-day programs are cost effective because they reduce the need for remediation in later grades.
It isn't baby-sitting and it isn't intended as day care. Rather, it is proving to be an effective tool for helping to close education's disturbing achievement gap.
And remember, the program would be entirely voluntary, just as half-day kindergarten is now, since Utah's compulsory education law doesn't require that children attend kindergarten.
Considering the good it would do, KSL urges lawmakers to give their approval and expand voluntary full-day kindergarten in Utah.
