'The benefits are endless'

Kristina Briney, Pablo, full-time kindergarten teacher, written comments to MEA-MFT Today:

I encourage anyone who is apprehensive of the benefits of full-day kindergarten to come into my classroom and experience, first-hand, the success of this program. I would also encourage them to visit with the kids, parents and staff members, particularly first and second grade teachers.

It's understandable to feel overwhelmed and unsure of having kindergarteners at school all day long, but I am confident that spending time observing our daily routine and visiting with the kids will help you gain a more informed and positive outlook.

It's easy to say the day would be too long for kindergarteners, but watching these kids and the progress they've made might allow you to see just how content they really are.

Some might say that all day kindergarten is just all-day 'daycare,' but these kids spend all day with trained educators who incorporate educational activities into their everyday routines. They are still given the opportunity for play and exploration but with educational materials that enhance their social skills and knowledge while encouraging problem solving.

I feel that the benefits of full-day kindergarten are endless for both me and the students. I couldn't imagine these kids reaching the same level of math and reading success if they weren't here all day.

As a teacher, I feel that I'm able to give much more to my students because I can spend all of my time focusing on just one class rather than trying to prepare for two. I can give these kids the individual attention they need and deserve, allowing me to individualize lesson to meet each child's needs. I also have more time to focus on other aspects, such as developing social skills, that I wouldn't have time for otherwise.

I have never taught half-day kindergarten before and don't feel I would ever want to. I wouldn't feel confident that these kids would receive the same opportunity for success. All children deserve the right to be successful and feel confident in their abilities and giving them extra time in the classroom allows them a better foundation for their educational future.

Because of changes in society in general, economic pressures on many parents, and the expectations of No Child Left Behind, all-day Kindergarten is an absolute necessity in public schools today.