Early Childhood Education is vital to the education process. Oklahoma is one of the foremost states in the promotion of early childhood programs through the public schools.

Since 2000, more than 70% of Kindergarten students attend full-day classes throughout the state. The number of 4 year old students enrolled in half-day programs has increased drastically.

Collinsville Public Schools has seen in increase in enrollment over the past years. In 1996, the school began the first four year old program with only 16 students. Since that time the enrollment has increased to 160 students, with a waiting list at most times due to lack of space.

Last Year the district began offering two sections of all-day Kindergaten and anticipate increasing all-day classes as space allows. Funding for student education is available, but at this time no space is available to enroll more students.

Collinsville Public Schools is one of only five districts in Tulsa County that does not offer all-day Kindergarten for all students.

Statewide and locally, increases have been seen in 3rd grade test scores of students who have attended four year old programs and all-day Kindergarten programs. Students who attend four year old programs are much more prepared overall for Kindergarten. Early childhood education is also vital in meeting the mandates of the "No Child Left Behind Act".

Research shows that these programs lead to future school success, higher test scores, fewer school drop outs, higher graduation rates and less special education required by students. Additionally, Oklahoma children made progress from attending these programs regardless of economic or ethnic backgrounds.

Collinsville Public Schools will run a School Bond Issue February 14, 2006, that could answer the needs of the four year old program, the Kindergarten program and offer both programs to many more children who reside in Collinsville.

Architectural drawings of a new site have been approved by the Collinsville Board of Education. All plans are ready to go forward as soon as the bond issue is passed.

As Collinsville experiences growth within the elementary levels, this need will become a requirement for the young students of this district.