As a retired teacher of 32 years, I watch with avid interest as schools vote to fund or not fund full day kindergarten.

Having worked with students ages 5 through 16 years, my experiences have brought me to one definitive conclusion. The greatest impact that society can have to guarantee a more successful school experience is to intervene early, very early, as early as 2 years old.

Full day kindergarten may well prepare many students for school. However, research and professional educators indicate that an emphasis on early learning may best prepare children for future school success.

Early intervention and education should be given top priority by every state. By introducing 2 and 3 year olds to prereading, language, and social skills, we will enhance their school readiness.

To equip young children with these basic but valuable skills can be accomplished in various ways.

* HeadStart already provides billions in state and federal funds for child care and preschool education. Continuing this trend and increasing appropriations is a positive step in the right direction.

* Educate every parent that a need to provide an early childhood program for every child can be life changing.

* Greater coordination between early childhood programs, child care facilities, and local elementary schools.

* Provide every family the opportunity to enroll their child in an early education program, whether working or non-working parents.

* Educate young teen parents regarding child development and how very important language and social development will be to their child's future. Encourage these young people to begin reading aloud to their newborn child.

Over the years, students in all my classes grew weary of my continuous encouragement to read, read anything.

"To be a good student, you must be a good reader. You have to read a lot. It builds vocabulary, reading speed and fluency, and comprehension."

Intervention for the very young child could produce successful students and significant gains for every school child. What a delightful place school could be if we offer each youngster the very best chance to succeed in their academic endeavors.

Success builds confidence. Confidence brings joy in learning.

Tawni is a staff writer for the Greene County Daily World. She can be reached by e-mail at tawniprudhomme@gmail.com