Governor Jim Doyle Tuesday signed into law AB 119, a bill requiring children to complete five−year−old kindergarten as a prerequisite to being admitted to first grade in a public school.

“Today, I am pleased to sign SB 119 so that every kid has every opportunity possible to achieve their potential,” Governor Doyle said. “This legislation will help ensure that all kids in Wisconsin will get off to the right start in school. The early years of a child’s life have a lasting impact and excellent early childhood education can mean better overall development, a smaller chance of being held back in school or dropping out, and lower special education costs.”

Beginning in the 2011−12 school year, this bill requires a child to complete five−year−old kindergarten as a prerequisite to being admitted to first grade in a public school, including a charter school. The bill permits a school board and the operator of an independent charter school to establish policies, standards, conditions, and procedures for the parent or guardian of a child to seek an exemption from the requirement that the child complete kindergarten. The bill also requires a child who is enrolled in five−year−old kindergarten in a public or private school to regularly attend kindergarten during the school year.