Tests show half of Ky. kindergarteners not ready for school

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — A statewide readiness test has found that half of kindergarten students began class in the fall without having basic skills to help them succeed.

The results released Wednesday were similar to last year’s findings.

Education Commissioner Terry Holliday told The Courier-Journal (http://cjky.it/15vsQyW ) that change "involves a systemic, cultural shift" and that takes time.

The data found wide variations among students depending on their experiences before kindergarten.

Almost 70 percent of those who were in childcare tested as ready while 38 percent of those in a home setting tested a s ready. Almost half of those in state-funded preschool or in a Head Start program tested as ready. Students could be listed in more than one category.

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Information from: The Courier-Journal, http://www.courier-journal.com

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