I recently read an article from the Education Commission of the States entitledInequalities at the Starting Line: State Kindergarten Policies by Emily Workman.Basically the author talks about the differences among kindergarten policies in the 50 different states. In studying the policies it was found that there are significant differences that exist for our kids. The unequal set of opportunities across our states perpetuates the lingering achievement gaps we are facing. This report presents findings on six key components of a kindergarten system: availability, length of day, student assessment, quality of instruction, standards and curriculum, and funding.

I recently shared a post about two-thirds of students not being ready for kindergarten . So, imagine two-thirds of entering kindergarteners who are not ready academically, socially, emotionally or all three entering one of the kindergarten classes that is lacking time, quality of instruction, funding, etc. No wonder we are struggling to close the gaps. On the other hand, I have seen first-hand what high quality pre-school combined with a quality kindergarten experience can do for a child's educational start and future.

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