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Idaho Legislature Considering Pre-K

Idaho lawmakers will vote next week on two bills that could be the first steps to developing a state pre-k program. The would fund a survey of existing pre-k programs in the state, allow local governments to levy funds for pre-k, and establish . This is a big step: Idaho is one of only 8 states that don’t fund pre-k, and current Idaho law actually prohibits spending public school funds to serve children younger than 5. A recent survey by Boise State University shows that a majority of Idaho residents support state funding for pre-k while the Idaho legislature has repeatedly blocked attempts to make it happen..

Alabama Pre-K Program Recognized for Community Involvement

The Tuscaloosa pre-k program received last week in recognition of the program’s community-wide commitment to pre-k. Local charities, city government, the United Way, and the Alexis de Tocqueville to support the program since it was founded in 1992. Today the program serves 299 at-risk four year olds; 150 more children are waiting for the program to secure more funding. Elsewhere in the state and operate a program to introduce infants to the joys of reading books.

Oregon Approves Full-Day Kindergarten … For a Fee

The Oregon Legislature last week approved a bill that will services. Currently the state school funding formula only pays for half-day programs. Some districts use federal Title 1 funds pay for full-day programs, but others offer only half-day kindergarten. Education advocates in Oregon have been pressuring the state legislature for several years to increase funding for both full-day kindergarten and expanded pre-k. Many lawmakers said this week’s move is “elitist” and , which would come with an estimated $50 million price tag.