The Senate Education votes 5-1 in favor of a bill that would make kindergarten mandatory in Louisiana. Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields’ bill would require all children to start school at the age of five. Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools Legal Director Sarah Vandergriff backs the legislation…
“Any message the state can send to parents of the importance of early education is supported,” said Vandergriff.
Homeschool Louisiana Government Affairs Jesse Leger spoke in opposition. She said five-year-olds should be outside playing, not limited to a classroom setting and this places another burden on families who homeschool.
“We will have to report to the state two years earlier than we do now. It’s just another government overreach which we’re not super happy about,” said Leger.
Executive Director of the Louisiana Partnership for Children and Families Susan East Nelson supports the bill because research shows early education has a direct impact on learning and social skills.
“All of the evidence about those very valuable early years tells us that kindergarten being mandatory is a big step towards helping children thrive,” said Nelson.
The bill advances to the Senate Floor but could be sent to the Senate Finance to address fiscal needs to provide kindergarten at all public schools.
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