Editorial: Seize the opportunity

Sunday, April 29, 2007 | 7:27 a.m.

W ith about 70 percent of the nation's kindergartners enrolled in full-day programs, it is time for Nevada's legislators and governor to see to it that all children in this state have the same opportunity.

Right now the extra instruction is offered to at-risk students at the state's expense. Additionally, some grade schools make full-day kindergarten available to any student whose family can pay tuition of $300 a month.

We agree with Assembly Speaker Barbara Buckley, D-Las Vegas, who told the Sun last month : "It is not enough to provide it to some of our disadvantaged students or to the children of more affluent parents. It should be an opportunity available to all children."

Assembly Bill 157, supported by Democratic legislators, would authorize full-day kindergarten to begin in Nevada on July 1, 2008.

Also in support of full-day kindergarten are all 17 of the state's school district superintendents - who have made the issue a top priority for the current legislative session - and the head of the state's university system, Chancellor Jim Rogers.

As with all worthy programs, however, the cost of full-day kindergarten must be compared against its benefits. With a price tag of about $90 million over the state's two-year budget cycle, (out of an education budget of about $2.5 billion), we believe the value is there.

Many studies by states, universities and nonprofit research organizations have shown that full-day versus half-day kindergarten makes a positive difference in students' academic performance and social development.

In the Legislature, Senate Majority Leader Bill Raggio, R- Reno, cites cost as a reason to oppose AB157. He believes full-day kindergarten is too expensive now, even in its limited application. He says there are higher priorities in the state's K-12 schools.

Higher than a proven chance to raise academic achievement?

Cost is a valid point, but we believe it should be approached from a longer view. With so much known about the benefits of full-day kindergarten, what will be the cost in the future if we do not invest now? Having the opportunity to make a positive difference in our students' lives, we should seize it.