Full-Day Kindergarten Options May Be Explored in Chatham

A Chatham parent group is advocating for the creation of a publicly-funded full day kindergarten in Chatham and is inviting parents to upcoming information sessions.

The district superintendent said he is open to exploring the possibility.

A projected decline in student enrollment for the first time in more than a decade, and 2010 state standards that emphasize academic learning in kindergarten are reasons it could make sense for the School District of the Chathams to explore starting a full day kindergarten program, Superintendent Dr. Michael LaSusa said.

The obstacles: financial and space constraints.

LaSusa said prior administrations and school boards have discussed starting a full day kindergarten, and parents have expressed renewed interest in the possibility. LaSusa recently discussed the issue with representatives of the interested parent group.

The group, FDK Chatham, has scheduled information sessions at the Library of the Chathams for parents who are interested in learning more about full day kindergarten.

The sessions are 8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2, and 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4.

"We are holding two information sessions at the Library of the Chathams for parents who may have questions about full day kindergarten or the initiative," Amanda Feeman said.

"If people are unable to attend the meeting, but are interested in full day kindergarten, they can find more information and complete our survey at www.fdkchatham.com," Feeman said in an email. "We also encourage people to 'Like' us on facebook if they would like to receive additional information about full day kindergarten." (Facebook page)

The group says on its website, "We are residents of Chatham who are looking to strengthen the educational offerings in our community by advocating for a publicly funded Full Day Kindergarten option. We believe it is best for our town and our kids."

LaSusa said Chatham is among approximately 23 percent of districts in New Jersey that does not offer full day kindergarten.

"The school district and Board of Education are open to examining the feasibility of full day kindergarten, but the school district is also aware of the financial and space constraints" that are the district's "current reality," LaSusa said.

LaSusa said enrollment has grown each year he has been with the district, since 2001. Growth has slowed, but not yet peaked. It's impossible to predict when enrollment will decline, but the district's demographer predicts it will be in the immediate future, he said.

For more information about the parent group meeting or initiative email fdkchatham@gmail.com.