The charge of the legislative kindergarten study committee is to find a way to fund full-day kindergarten statewide by the 2009-2010 school year. Full-day kindergarten is currently offered in schools where 90 per cent of the students are low income.

It seemed to be a simple assignment until the Joint Legislative Study Committee on full-day kindergarten met Nov. 9. Rep. Linda Gray, R-10, and Rep. John Huppenthal, R-20, ignored the committee’s task and attempted to re-debate the merits of full-day kindergarten and whether the educational value was worth the costs. When Ms. Gray was reminded the full Legislature had already voted on the merits of full-day kindergarten by agreeing to phase it in, she abruptly adjourned the meeting.

Needless to say, the reason for convening the committee — to find funding for full-day kindergarten — was never addressed, to the dismay of the 80 educators, parents, and early education activists who attended the hearing.

The research on the benefits of early childhood education is overwhelming. It’s time for the committee to do its job and find the funding.

Andrew Morrill, vice president, Arizona Education Association