This week’s post on Kindergarten Readiness has generated more questions than any other single post yet this year. The majority of the question fall into these categories:
- Full day versus half day kindergarten offered by Massachusetts towns.
- How much does kindergarten tuition cost?
- Is kindergarten mandatory?
We’ll try to address each of these question briefly here. For more detail we’ve included this link to a Massachusetts Kindergarten Fact sheet offered by Strategies for Children. You can view the fact sheet here.
Full Day versus Half Day Kindergarten
There is very little if any controversy on this issue. A full day kindergarten curriculum provides a much richer and comprehensive educational experience for children and greatly aids in the transition and preparation of children for elementary school. The problem is that 39% of kindergarten children are not able to attend full day kindergarten because it is either not offered by the town or the limited slots prevent complete participation. If at all possible seek out a full day kindergarten program but opt for half day if it is the only option available. Do not skip kindergarten because only a half day program is available. (See “Is kindergarten mandatory” below.)
How much is kindergarten tuition?
Only 48% of school districts in Massachusetts offer universal, free full-day kindergarten! Tuition ranges wildly in both public and private kindergartens. Most public kindergartens receive grants from the state to help offset tuition expense but public tuition still ranges from $410 to $4,000 per year with an average tuition of $2,400 (in the 2005-2006 school year). Private kindergarten is also variable with tuition ranging from $8,000 to $15,000/year.
Is kindergarten mandatory?
We must admit that we were surprised by the number of e-mails we received pointing out that kindergarten is indeed not mandatory in Massachusetts. The mandatory school attendance age is six years old at which point children are required to attend first grade. Kindergarten is not mandatory in Massachusetts, however the benefits of kindergarten are so clearly defined that few groups or individuals recommend skipping kindergarten.
We hope this clarifies addresses the majority of kindergarten related question - but if not - please continue to send your questions.
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