Half Day Versus Full Day Kindergarten Classes

ASHBURN, VA - FEBRUARY 28: Using colored beans and matching colored markers, kindergartener Carter Murray practices math addition at Golden Pond School, a private preschool, on Friday, February 28, 2014, in Ashburn, VA. Kindergartener Carter Murray, who like many Loudoun kids, attends public kindergarten for half the day and private kindergarten, Golden Pond, for half the day. Loudoun County is the only school district in the Washington region that does not have full day kindergarten. Obama's push for universal pre-school has exposed stark differences in kindergarten programs around the country, with wide ranging schedules and age requirements. The trend is toward full day programs, but Loudoun and many other districts do not offer a full day. Advocates say this puts children at a disadvantage, particularly when they are expected to meet the same or similar rigorous standards as other children who have twice as much time in the classroom. (Photo by Jahi Chikwendiu/The Washington Post via Getty Images)