Wolk joins Superintendent of Public Instruction’s efforts for Universal Preschool

AB 1246 moves through Education Committee and on to Assembly Appropriations

“Preschool is not only the right thing to do for our children, it is an investment that will pay tremendous economic and social dividends in the long run,” O’Connell said in his press release.

“This is truly a critical effort and will ensure that when our children attend kindergarten, they are showing up ready to learn,” said Assemblywoman Wolk at the conference. “A high quality preschool experience is essential to preparing young children to meet the high expectations of California’s public elementary schools and to close the achievement gap.”

Wolk’s legislation, Assembly Bill 1246, would authorize the State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI) to develop and adopt preschool learning standards in the areas of reading/language arts, mathematics, history/social science, and science. The learning standards will be developmentally appropriate, will assist in the transition from home to preschool--and from preschool to kindergarten--and will address the emotional and physical skills they need to grow and learn.

“As a former teacher and Chair of Yolo County First 5, I know you can’t underestimate the value of a strong preschool experience,” Wolk added later. “Preschool is where children really begin to develop the cognitive and social skills that prepare them for a lifetime of learning. It gives them a foundation upon which they can build throughout their lives.”

AB 1246 passed through the Assembly Education Committee today, and will next be heard in the Appropriations Committee. The bill is being sponsored by Superintendent O’Connell.