RE: Universal Preschool

I think the recognition that early childhood is the critical time for preparation for later academic success is important in planning for a child's educational career. As a public school teacher, I have watched the standards for K-2 become over-academic and rigorous, to the point of losing the heart of the programs: hands-on active learning, art, music, and movement and the play that should be integrated into academics designed specifically for children. We need to remember that early childhood education includes children through third grade. This understanding needs to be the foundation of the standards that should drive the programs from birth through primary, and indeed all education that is to have a positive, lasting effect.

Before we institute a mandatory or universal preschool program, we need to be clear on our standards, which must include how that level will flow into the kindergarten and primary grades, all requiring more appropriate standards and assessments than are currently being used in California.