Rather than just talking about pre-kindergarten — and hearing the predictable response from those naysayers at the Statehouse — Caldwell schools are doing it themselves. Sixty-six children are attending preschool this year under a program the Caldwell School District dubs P16. As in “preschool through grade 16,” the senior year of college. The goal is to prepare young children now for success later in their academic careers. Makes sense, and the new program has impressive community buy-in. The Treasure Valley YMCA is staffing the pre-K programs. The United Way and the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Foundation are chipping in funding. And where’s the state? On the sidelines. As usual/Kevin Richert, Idaho Statesman. More here.

Question: Do you consider kindergarten to be important for a youngster's early education?