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As one of the many families that recently moved here because of the reputation of the schools, I must tell you how disappointed I am that Full Day Kindergarten remains an issue. We came from a system that had Full Day K, and we found it to be incredibly helpful to our children - academically, but also socially and emotionally. It is a fantastic transition into the world of public schools, and a great majority of the high achieving schools throughout this Country adopted full-day long ago. To suggest that it is just for children who are disadvantaged is simply misguided. All children can benefit from 6 hours of school at this age, especially since it means more time for art, gym, library, music, recess and socialization. Five year olds are eager and ready to learn, excited to form friendships and relationships independent of their parents, and are more than able to do so. With regard to the concept that we will jeopardize other important areas of our schools if we enact full-day kindergarten, the budget will not change for other areas if the additional funds are approved for K at the Town Meeting. And while I agree that we are lacking in other areas (and was shocked to see just how lacking when we arrived here), that is certainly not a reason to dismiss Full-Day Kindergarten. Barrington spends less per-pupil than almost all the other Districts in this State, and frankly, that is hurting our students. Just imagine what our kids could do if we actually gave them the funding they deserved!! While our kids are doing great, the reality is they can do better if we provide them with the tools they need in this 21st century educational landscape. If we wish to remain a high achieving school district, then as a community we must commit to increasing the budget of our school system so that we can meet the needs of all of our students, kindergarteners included.

From: Letter: A compromise for full-day kindergarten in Barrington

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Jim McGaw

A lifelong Portsmouth resident, Jim graduated from Portsmouth High School in 1982 and earned a journalism degree from the University of Rhode Island in 1986. He's worked two different stints at East Bay Newspapers, for a total of 18 years with the company so far. When not running all over town bringing you the news from Portsmouth, Jim listens to lots and lots and lots of music, watches obscure silent films from the '20s and usually has three books going at once. He also loves to cook crazy New Orleans dishes for his wife of 25 years, Michelle, and their two sons, Jake and Max.