NY Senators Calling For '50 Hour Learning Week,' After School Program Expansion

ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP)--  A group of New York state senators is pushing for a big investment in after-school programs and all-day kindergarten to create what they're calling a "50-hour learning week'' for students.

The proposal was announced Friday by the Independent Democratic Conference (IDC). Sen. Jeffrey Klein said the proposal would combine traditional classroom work with other types of learning opportunities.

"After school expansion, community schools and full day kindergarten," Klein told WCBS 880's Stephanie Colombini.

Klein said the plan calls for $750 million in additional education funding to tackle these three goals. He said the state would be making a positive investment in the futures of young New Yorkers.

"They're going to become better learners in school. Thus getting better jobs and contributing a positive way to the workforce," Klein told WCBS 880.

Sen. Diane Savino, another member of the five-member IDC, said expanding after-school activities and all-day kindergarten would boost education outcomes, ultimately reducing taxpayer spending on remedial education and crime prevention.

The state has until April 1 to finalize its budget.

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