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Today, Oregonians celebrate a landmark in early childhood education-- expanding full-day kindergarten across the state.
In 2014, at its highest rate thus far, full-day kindergarten was only available to 42% of Oregon children. The lack of full-day options was a perennial disappointment for thousands of families who knew the research on its benefits. Children in full-day kindergarten are apt to score higher in performance testing as far ahead as seventh grade as compared to their half-day peers.
Now, every kid will have a jumpstart on reaching their potential. Each kindergartener will receive structured days of math, reading, vocabulary, arts and reasoning. There will be time for interaction, play, and transition – all essential elements of early learning.
But the battle to get here was hard-won. I introduced full-day Kindergarten legislation in 2003. In 2011, after years of hand wringing and procrastination, the legislature finally voted to fund it.
Schools and budgets were given five years to ramp up. The funding came – not through higher taxes – but with changing priorities in education.
I was honored to commemorate this milestone with Governor Brown at Nancy Ryles Elementary today.
“This investment expands the opportunity for our children to be successful throughout their educational journeys.” noted Governor Brown.
I hope you will join me in celebrating this fall’s first school bells as a we ring in a brighter future.
Sincerely,
 Senator Mark Hass
Senate District 14
email: Sen.MarkHass@state.or.us I phone: 503-986-1714
address: 900 Court St NE, S-207, Salem, OR, 97301
website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/hass
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