September 16, 2019
Full-day kindergarten could soon be required in every California school
If the bill is approved, California will join 14 other states and the District of Columbia in requiring districts to offer full-day kindergarten.
Topic
Early Learning
Quality early care and education are critical to prepare California children for school and their lives in general. But a large percentage of children do not have access to high quality early childhood education programs. The state restored a large share of the preschool and child care slots eliminated during the recession, and has invested more in full-day programs. Early childhood advocates, parents, and providers are eagerly awaiting implementation of a series of reforms proposed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has made early education a central policy pillar of his administration. He has promised universal access to all low-income 4 year olds by the end of his first term, along with full-kindergarten. He is also promising major expansion of prenatal services, and services for children beginning at birth such as family home visits.