Educating children in a positive, structured environment where they can begin early learning enhances their cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Research has shown that children enrolled in full day kindergarten learn more in reading and math, fully participate in the classroom, and exhibit more independent learning than in half-day kindergarten programs. 
  
All children deserve to have these benefits so they will have the best chance at succeeding as they grow. To help with this, my legislation would implement full-day kindergarten as a formal component of basic education. School board directors in each school district would be required to establish and maintain a full-time kindergarten program for children between the ages of three and five. The Department of Education, with the assistance of the newly created Full-Day Kindergarten Advisory Committee, would develop a state plan to implement full day kindergarten and provide guidance, technical assistance, and resources to school districts. 
  
Every child deserves the opportunity to achieve their dreams and succeed in the classroom. Please join me in supporting full-day kindergarten in Pennsylvania to give children a jumpstart with early learning.