As a current kindergarten teacher who is passionate about the 5-year-olds in our area, I want to bring your attention to the upcoming ballot issue for Durango School District 9-R.
Full-day kindergarten is at risk of being cut next year. Colorado does not mandate all-day kindergarten, yet Durango 9-R has funded full-day kindergarten because educators recognize that all-day kindergarten is crucial to young students meeting the rigor of standards.
Full-day kindergarten is associated with a wide range of positive outcomes, including increased student achievement and social and behavioral development.
The National Education Association recognizes that full-day kindergarten programs close achievement gaps between young children from minority and low-income families and their peers.
By providing a solid foundation of learning to children from all backgrounds, full-day kindergarten programs ensure academic, social and emotional success for all students. Children who attend full-day kindergarten show sizable learning advantages at the end of the kindergarten year.
The best way to ensure Durango’s future is to invest in our children. I urge you to vote yes on Ballot Question 3A.
Suzanne Cash
Durango
