A lot of elementary schools already offer Pre-K programs, but they rely heavily on extra funding to keep them going.
EducatorEthan said:
A lot of elementary schools already offer Pre-K programs, but they rely heavily on extra funding to keep them going.
Yes, but the space for these programs is often limited, and priority goes to kids who need special education support. For early childhood education to be widely available, it would need major expansion.
@josephcreamer
My city talks about giving large reparations to some individuals. Imagine if even a portion of that went toward programs for kids. Public schools do need flexibility, and charter schools often show how that’s possible. San Francisco even has public schools with arts-focused curriculums that help kids thrive in a specific environment. Why not create more options like that?
@madisonwilson
Reparations aren’t really the issue here. Charter schools tend to run on tight budgets, pay teachers poorly, and lack the oversight needed to protect all kids’ rights. Public schools already do a lot, but they’re just underfunded.
@josephcreamer
Noted. Charter schools may not be ideal everywhere, but if they’re working, shouldn’t we try to adapt similar models?
madisonwilson said:
@josephcreamer
Noted. Charter schools may not be ideal everywhere, but if they’re working, shouldn’t we try to adapt similar models?
Good charter schools exist, but they’re rare. Many operate without oversight, which affects quality.
School isn’t daycare. Teachers are here to teach, not to provide childcare. Plus, summers aren’t actually that free for teachers—they use the time to continue their education and prepare for the next school year.
@MissNicklaus
No teacher should be made to work more days unless they want to. My suggestion was always just for one or two schools in areas that might benefit from it.
madisonwilson said:
@MissNicklaus
No teacher should be made to work more days unless they want to. My suggestion was always just for one or two schools in areas that might benefit from it.
It sounds like you’re not fully aware of what it takes to work in education.
I get the idea of not leaving schools empty, but what about cleaning and maintenance? Some facilities are already struggling to keep up.
EduVibeTrailblazer said:
I get the idea of not leaving schools empty, but what about cleaning and maintenance? Some facilities are already struggling to keep up.
Our school’s last remodel, which was supposed to take just one summer, barely finished in time for the new year. It’s tough when buildings don’t have a break for repairs.
@DolphGabbana
Yeah, exactly. In some places, schools are almost falling apart. Maintenance is a real issue.
EduVibeTrailblazer said:
I get the idea of not leaving schools empty, but what about cleaning and maintenance? Some facilities are already struggling to keep up.
I’m not saying schools shouldn’t have breaks. But some parents are choosing expensive private schools for choice and flexibility, and it feels like public schools could consider offering similar options.
Can you clarify? Are you suggesting schools combine early learning with childcare services?
RaeganRevord said:
Can you clarify? Are you suggesting schools combine early learning with childcare services?
I’m only suggesting that a few schools in big cities could try this, just to see if it works.
If something like this happened, I think we’d lose a lot of teachers. I once worked at a charter where I stayed until late most days, and it really took a toll. Teachers want to teach, not babysit.
SarahJackson said:
If something like this happened, I think we’d lose a lot of teachers. I once worked at a charter where I stayed until late most days, and it really took a toll. Teachers want to teach, not babysit.
I understand. I live in a city where public schools are closing due to low enrollment, while housing costs rise. It’s just an idea for a few voluntary programs that might help families struggling with high rent costs. This isn’t about pushing for changes that impact all schools.
Florida has PK programs, but they’re half-day. Full-day options require extra payment. With current teacher shortages, I doubt increasing instructional days would be sustainable.