Bring Full-Day Kindergarten to Lower Merion School District

LMSD Superintendent Mumin and LMSD Board Members,

We, the undersigned Lower Merion School District (LMSD) parents and taxpayers, assert that kindergarten students deserve a full day of education. The wrap-around programs that exist are costly and do not address the developmental needs of our children. Furthermore, managing the logistics and financial burdens of half-day schooling is inequitable and unsustainable for families. The status quo limits employment opportunities for parents, and creates hardship for families with multiple young children.

Studies have shown that full-day kindergarten leads to academic gains well into elementary school, as well as higher levels of self-confidence and interpersonal skills such as sharing and forming friendships. Spending a full day in school buildings fosters a sense of belonging and community which is crucial to social-emotional development. Being in school for less than 3 hours a day does not allow for proper academic, psychosocial, and developmental assessment by staff and teachers.

LMSD is one of the few remaining districts in Pennsylvania that does not offer full-day kindergarten. Governor Tom Wolf has advocated for the expansion of universal, no-cost, full-day kindergarten for every child in our commonwealth. We understand barriers and space constraints exist, but believe there is a path forward. Fifth grade is moving to middle school across the district and a new middle school will be opening in the fall 2022. These shifts will create more space in all LMSD elementary schools. Furthermore, LMSD is currently conducting a pilot study on full-day kindergarten. These factors should help to make full-day education available for all. Our taxes pay for education in our district and we are not getting our fair share.

We are ready to engage in any discussions or processes required to move our district into full day kindergarten by the 2023-2024 school year.

We thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

LMSD Parents and Taxpayers