Dear Assemblymember Muratshuchi,
The California Catholic Conference respectfully expresses concerns regarding AB 1631, which would require completion of one year of kindergarten prior to admission to first grade.
While we recognize the value of early childhood education, available data suggest that a statewide mandate is not warranted. Kindergarten participation is already high, with approximately 85–95% of eligible children enrolled, meaning only a small percentage of students do not attend. These decisions are often intentional and reflect a child’s developmental readiness or a family’s specific circumstances.