Button TextA Saskatoon Public Schools Foundation study in partnership with the University of Toronto shows that full-day, every day kindergarten strengthens literacy, school readiness, and long-term success.
Early Learning Equal Start was independently evaluated through a multi-year partnership between Saskatoon Public Schools Foundation, Saskatoon Public Schools, and the University of Toronto. From 2019 to 2024, researchers examined how consistent daily kindergarten impacts school readiness and early literacy across Saskatchewan classrooms.
• Independent University of Toronto study
• 2019–2024 evaluation period
• 5 student cohorts
• 25 schools
• 29 classrooms
This research provides the strongest evidence to date that consistent, full-day kindergarten drives stronger early learning outcomes.
From 2019 to 2024, researchers examined how consistent daily kindergarten impacts school readiness and early literacy across Saskatchewan classrooms.
Access to consistent, full-day, every day, high-quality kindergarten is one of the strongest predictors of high school graduation.
Every year, more than 28% of students have not achieved grade level literacy by Grade 3.
Saskatchewan has the 3rd lowest literacy rates in Canada.
Grade 3 literacy is a critical marker; kids are 4x less likely to graduate if they haven’t achieved it.
Students in full-day, every day programs show measurable gains in early literacy outcomes.
Full-day, every day kindergarten helps more children enter Grade 1 ready to learn and succeed.
Consistent classroom time helps reduce early learning gaps meaning students are less at risk.
Michael Linklater, Early Learning Equal Start Campaign Co-Chair
Full-day, every day kindergarten is more than additional time in the classroom, it is consistent daily learning that drives measurable results.
The University of Toronto evaluation shows that students who attend full-day, every day programming demonstrate stronger school readiness and early literacy gains than peers in half-day or alternating-day models.
Daily attendance supports stronger foundations in reading, language, and confidence. This is helping more children start Grade 1 on track and ready to succeed.
The impact of full-day, every day kindergarten reaches far beyond the classroom.
Stronger early literacy and school readiness help build a more resilient education system, support families, and strengthen Saskatchewan’s future workforce.
More children enter Grade 1 prepared to learn, reducing the need for costly remedial supports.
Gains are especially meaningful for students facing barriers at school entry, helping close opportunity gaps.
Early literacy is one of the most cost-effective investments a province can make, supporting long-term economic growth.
Consistent programming strengthens childcare access and helps families balance work and home life.
Source: Insightrix Survey - June 2023
DonateThe findings from this evaluation provide a clear path forward for Saskatchewan’s early learning future. Together, we can ensure every child has the consistent start they deserve.
Make full-day, every day kindergarten a cornerstone of Saskatchewan's early learning strategy.
Continue expanding evidence-based programming that strengthens literacy and school readiness.
Build collaboration between educators, communities, and government to scale what works.
Invest early to improve graduation rates, reduce long-term costs, and create stronger outcomes for children and families.
Alice Kuipers, Early Learning Equal Start Campaign Co-Chair
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