On Monday, the Senate Education Committee held hearings on the benefits of pre-school education and full-day kindergarten. In testimony, Sharon Seyler, NJSBA legislative advocate, emphasized the importance of pre-school programs for children, noting that they are an integral part of a child’s emotional and social development. They also provide an opportunity to determine if a child has learning disabilities before the child enters kindergarten. Seyler also testified on the advantages of full-day kindergarten in districts where it is feasible, stating that the New Jersey Department of Education should provide assistance and the funds necessary to convert half-day programs to a full day. NJSBA believes that full-day programs should not be mandated unless state funds are available to local districts.
