Age 5 too young for first grade

I read in complete horror, as did many of my colleagues, the article about allowing private kindergarten graduates the opportunity to enter first grade at age 5. Even more disturbing is the fact the proponent of this legislation is my state rep.

I have taught kindergarten and preschool for over 20 years, have my Masters' of Education in Early Childhood and obtained my National Board Certification in Early Childhood. I also taught a Junior kindergarten program for children who had already attended TWO years of preschool and were not 5 by the Sept. 1 entry date. These students then went on to kindergarten the following year in compliance with the Sept. 1 entry requirement.

I strongly agree with all of the educators' opinions presented in the article who oppose this nonsensical idea. Frankly, it is embarrassing that I voted for someone who would propose such a self-serving and unenlightened law. I know that many kindergarten and 1st grade teachers in Illinois are hoping Gov. Quinn also views this legislation as inappropriate and not support its passage in the best interest of our students.

Jan Wilcox

West Chicago