Donald Hancock, Superintendent, Sanders Unified School District, Sanders , testified that students located in New Mexico near Gallup and Zuni are transported to Sanders for education, so he would also like to see agreement between the Arizona and New Mexico for open enrollment. He added that the State only provides funding for one-half day of Kindergarten, but many schools are now forced to provide Kindergarten instruction all day because of the long distance students travel. He suggested addressing funding for all-day Kindergarten programs for students on the reservation. Mr. Lockery advised that he opened a bill file for all-day Kindergarten and the two recommendations approved by the Study Committee. He indicated that legislation is usually the last recommended course of action.
Legislation can sometimes be difficult if amendments are made.
Mr. Clark opined that it would be prudent for leadership of the House Rural and Native American Affairs Committee to be aware of some of the issues raised. It would also be in the best interest of the tribes if someone from a rural district is appointed each year as Chairman or Vice Chairman, and in the counterpart Committee in the Senate as well. Chairman Laughter said that is a good recommendation, which should be put in writing and sent to key people. Ms. Roessel said she believes it is very important to talk about all of the problems on the Navajo reservation or any other reservation. She endorsed the concept of Kindergarten for a full day.