For the last few years, it looked as if children entering the Cincinnati public schools were coming to kindergarten more prepared then ever, in part due to expanded access to pre-school programs and more coordination between what they learned beforehand and the city’s K-12 curriculum.
The recession and budget cuts, however, may be taking a toll, according to a story in The Cincinnati Enquirer. And it’s one that could be played out in school districts across Ohio and throughout the U.S.
In Ohio, lawmakers cut some $11.5 million from early childhood education, and eliminated a preschool program for poor children. In addition, the Cincinnati public schools lost half a million dollars in funding for English language learners.
In Ohio, fears students will be less ready for kindergarten
“In 2007, the state made some tremendous gains in the investment in pre-K education, but in the last year Ohio took a huge hit,” Marci Young, director of Pre-K Now, a Pew Center on the States campaign for quality early childhood education, told The Enquirer. “There was a 33 percent loss in spending on early childhood education. I would say Ohio certainly lost ground.”
How are similar trends playing out across the U.S.? There are many tools and resources available to consult, but it’s possible the true picture won’t be known for years to come, when students show up for kindergarten — and they aren’t ready to learn in the way they should be.
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at 12:23 am
Unfortunately, funding for pre-k and all day kindergartens is dwindling in many cities across the United States. Therefore, in order to help our children succeed; it is simply time for parents to step up to the plate. Parents can begin by reading aloud to their children daily. Twenty minutes a day will increase their vocabulary and comprehension. Books are free at the public libraries. Parents can also purchase inexpensive educational CDs that teach alphabet sounds, vowel sounds, and much more.
Yes, pre-k and all day kindergarten would be great…but in the mean time parents, let us do what we can to help our children succeed. Go to http://www.readtomeamerica.com and purchase “Teach Me How To Read…So I Can Succeed.” This CD promotes literacy and parental involvement. In addition, the CD is performed by children and is fun and upbeat. Check out the web site and listen to the sample music. http://www.readtomeamerica.com
When I go to the Big School…you know kindergarten, kindergarten
When I go to the Big School…this is what I should know…so teach me before I go
The above lyrics are an excerpt from the CD Teach Me How To Read…So I Can Succeed