Bedford Schools push for full day kindergarten amid changing student needs

The Bedford School District Board convened on February 4, 2025, to discuss the implementation of a full-day kindergarten program, emphasizing its potential benefits for students and the community. The meeting highlighted the need for increased funding to support this initiative, which aims to align kindergarten education with first-grade standards.

Board members and educators addressed concerns regarding the current half-day program, noting that many incoming kindergarten students lack the foundational skills previously expected. This shift has resulted in longer times for students to meet educational benchmarks. The discussion underscored the importance of providing adequate instructional time, particularly for students with special needs who may require additional support during the school day.

Superintendent Mike Fournier presented data indicating that students who transition from a full-day kindergarten program to first grade demonstrate significantly higher reading proficiency compared to those from a half-day program. Specifically, a recent assessment showed a 44% increase in reading proficiency for students entering second grade after a full-day program. This data was deemed crucial for justifying the investment in full-day kindergarten.

Educators, including kindergarten teachers, expressed their support for the initiative, emphasizing that the goal is not to increase academic pressure on young learners but to provide them with more time to develop essential skills through a play-based curriculum. Nicole Cascimaccino, a digital learning specialist and parent, reinforced the notion that full-day kindergarten is a necessity rather than a luxury, advocating for high educational standards within the district.

The board plans to further discuss the financial implications and potential amendments to the proposed funding article in upcoming meetings, with a focus on ensuring that the investment translates into measurable academic achievements for students. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue exploring ways to enhance educational outcomes for all students in the Bedford School District.