Doing What’s Right For Children

To the Editor:

I have always believed in full-day kindergarten, but learning that every Newtown school principal is supportive, and yet it still might not pass the vote, has motivated me to action. My argument is a personal one based on my past seven years in Newtown trying to navigate the school system with three young children.

My husband and I moved from Stamford after we had our first child in the hopes of finding a great public school system and more affordable housing in Newtown.

When our first son was old enough for kindergarten, we placed him in full-day private school. My preference was for him to receive the most educational support I could possibly provide him.

However, when entering first grade, he was actually behind in reading. So, for child #2, we decided to try a different program and give half-day at Sandy Hook a chance. She loved her teacher and I believe received a very valuable education. However, there were drawbacks.

1) She had a hard time transitioning into first grade. With all of the academic requirements, this was not the best time for her body to try and self-regulate to full-day school.

2) She was constantly rushed. As a classroom volunteer, I saw the teachers struggle to get through the required curriculum in the time allotted. The pace was rigorous and stressful.

3) Finally, she missed out on some valuable social skills. There was little time for play, creativity and simply socializing with her peers — probably the most important lessons to learn in kindergarten.

Now it’s time for my last child to go to kindergarten. I’ve learned that the right path consists of the right school, the right curriculum and the right amount of time. Newtown’s school system has so much going for it; the one thing it’s lacking is time.

I’ve read in The Patch that “mothers only want this for free child care.” I want to say emphatically that just isn’t true. I’m home now with my children and believe in the full-day K initiative more than ever and the child care center directors I’ve spoken to in the area feel the same way. First and foremost, it’s about doing what’s right for our children — and all of our community’s children, not just the ones with family fortunate enough to cover private tuition.

So what can you do? Vote on April 24 at the middle school. Everyone needs to vote. Low turn-out will prevent this initiative from passing. It isn’t a done deal! If your child is too old to be affected by the initiative, vote Yes…pay it forward. Even if you aren’t concerned with the educational foundation for this community’s youth, but are concerned about your pocket book, Vote Yes. Because with over 85 percent of Fairfield County school districts offering more full-day K than Newtown (+90 percent by year end) and if we’re the last holdout, our school system’s reputation will go in the same direction as your housing values…down.

Kristen Marshall

23 Rose Lane, Sandy Hook                                             April 18, 2012