Measure calls for pilot preschool program

by Nick Delgado

Guam - Senators Tony Ada and Frank Blas Jr. introduced legislation that calls for a pilot voluntary preschool program within the Department of Education. Bill 179 would task DOE to develop the curriculum; budget and enrollment plan for a preschool program in one elementary school in each school district. The senators are hopeful this will serve as the stepping-stone to have public preschool available to all Guam's preschool children.

Senator Ada states, "We all are familiar with the successes of the head start program. These same benefits should be available to all preschool age children and their families." Senator Blas states adds, "The developmental learning in preschool helps set the stage for better achievement in the elementary grades and beyond."

The measure also allows tuition to be charged for the pilot program.