FUNDS SHUNNED

She applauded New York state's significant commitment to universal pre-K, which provides access to all children, but said too much money goes unclaimed.

"Spending is 80 percent of the allocation. So there is more than $100 million out on the table."

That is partly due to many school districts not taking advantage of the funds provided strictly to start universal pre-K programs.

"But the funding available only covers a half day, while most parents work eight hours, so two and a half hours of something does not do," Shaheen said. "Full-day services are essential for working parents."

Besides inadequate hours, many children can't get to the programs, yet the money allocated for universal pre-K can't be used for transportation.

"The funding doesn't allow flexibility to get over the barriers," Shaheen said.

That must change, she stressed, because every 4-year-old who wants a slot should have one.

"We have to generate the political will to get this done."

She called on local business leaders to be visible and become business champions for pre-K and use their positions to advocate for change right here and right now.

"More and more business leaders are responding to the challenge to boost school readiness. Actively advocate for a statewide pre-K system that works, with stable funding and a full-day program."

sbartlett@pressrepublican.com