Facts In Action

It may be a surprise to many that kindergarten is not mandatory throughout the United States and is offered for only a half-day in many places. A study by the Foundation for Child Development examines the variations among states and school districts in the way kindergarten programs operate and offers reasons why the "overlooked school year" deserves the public's attention.

A survey of states showed that states have different policies regarding the length of the kindergarten day, compulsory attendance, and standards for a child's age at kindergarten entry. However, school districts and individual schools within a district often provide services that exceed the requirements of state policy. Exactly how these programs differ has not been well documented, and in order to present a more detailed and accurate picture of kindergarten programs across the country, the study argues for the systematic collection of data on kindergarten at the school district level.

The study suggests that full-day kindergarten promotes better continuity in learning and more positive school transitions for children. Furthermore, all-day schooling for five-year olds is a much-needed support for working parents. While the focus on expanding early education programs has made full-year, full-day, pre-kindergarten available to many three- and four- year olds, the only option when these children reach age five may be half-day kindergarten programs that do not meet the needs of today's families.

Given that kindergarten systems vary so much from district to district, it is likely that children have different experiences during this "overlooked year." Sara Vecchiotti, the report's author, believes that kindergarten programs must be aligned with the educational systems in place for preschoolers and students in grades 1-12. Only then can the protection of a child's right to equal educational opportunity be assured.

Source:
Kindergarten: The Overlooked School Year, S. Vecchiotti, The Foundation For Child Development, October 2001.

For more information:
contact Sara Vecchiotti at the Foundation for Child Development, 145 East 32^nd Street, 14^th Floor, New York, NY 10016-6055, or email at guest6@ffcd.org.

Facts in Action, February 2002