The Catasauqua Area School Board will be discussing and planning for the possibility of implementing all day kindergarten and moving fifth grade classes down to Sheckler Elementary School within the next two to three months.

The board voted Sept. 9 to begin working on both plans.

"We're just asking for approval to start planning," said CASD Superintendent Robert Spengler. "These have a lot of issues. We have a lot to plan for."

Sheckler Principal Eric Dauberman expressed support for offering all day kindergarten.

"The space is there. It requires some movement," Dauberman said.

Board member Sally Reiss said some parents use all day kindergarten as a replacement for day care.

"And, it's very costly," board Vice President Carol Cunningham commented.

Dauberman said research has shown every day a child is in school prior to third grade improves his or her chances of attaining reading proficiency.

Board member Christine Naegel asked if there were any costs associated with developing plans. Spengler said there are no costs.

"Looking at our data, we need some programmatic changes and assistance for our students," Spengler said.

Spengler said if the board decides to pursue both all day kindergarten and housing fifth grade classes at Sheckler, thedecision will require a building extension project.

Spengler said more details will be shared in the near future regarding both plans.