WPRO News and the Associated Press
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) – A Rhode Island lawmaker has proposed allocating funds so every municipality can offer full-day kindergarten.
Senate Education Committee Chairwoman Hanna Gallo introduced a bill to accelerate the implementation of a portion of the state education aid funding formula to pay for new full-day kindergarten programs in the 2015-2016 school year at the rate they would be funded when the formula is fully phased in three years from now.
Officials say the early transition could cost the state an additional $3 million in the first year, and less in later years as the formula is phased in. Municipalities pay part of the expenses.
Seven municipalities do not offer full-day kindergarten to all students.
Gallo says full-day kindergarten boosts students’ cognitive and academic achievement and social and emotional growth.
