With Economy Uncertain,

Niskayuna Central School District makes no immediate plans to offer full day kindergarten

The Niskayuna school district, which has traditionally offered a half-day kindergarten program like many of its suburban counterparts, has discussed the topic of full day instruction for kindergarten students over the years and committees have studied the feasibility. In light of the current economic crisis and an expected decline in education dollars from the state, school officials reason that any plans to further explore the option of a full day kindergarten program will have to wait.

Although the New York State Board of Regents has proposed mandatory full-day kindergarten, such a proposal requires approval by the State Legislature to become law. Given the current economy, it is unlikely the Legislature will act anytime soon mandating full day Kindergarten programming. Kindergarten, while not mandated in the State of New York, is offered by a majority of school districts in the state as either a half day or a full day program at the discretion of the district. Only nine states require that a full-day kindergarten program by provided.
"To expand our existing program to full day would require significant increase in staff," said Superintendent of Schools Kevin Baughman. "Given the current economic climate, even maintaining current staffing levels and programs from this year to next will present considerable challenge." Despite a one-time state aid incentive provided to school districts for establishing a full-day program, a large share of the on-going cost of maintaining such a program would shift to local taxpayers in subsequent years.

Research suggests academic and social advantages for children who attend full day kindergarten. "Overall, there are benefits to full-day kindergarten. We are also fortunate that a large umber of children who begin their education in Niskayuna arrive here having attended a pre-school program," Baughman sad. "Many begin kindergarten with an adequate foundation, including supportive parents, that has prepared them to learn."

"Seeds of Learning" published by NCSD, Spring 2009. Emphasis added