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Second federal judge orders temporary reinstatement of thousands of probationary employees fired by the Trump administration; U.S., Canada political tension could affect Maine summer tourism; Report: Incarceration rates rise in MS, U.S. despite efforts at reform; MI study: HBCU students show better mental health, despite challenges.

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Trump administration faces legal battles on birthright citizenship; the arrest of a Palestinian activist sparks protests over free speech. Conservationists voice concerns about federal job cuts impacting public lands, and Ohio invests in child wellness initiatives.

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Farmers worry promised federal reimbursements aren't coming while fears mount that the Trump administration's efforts to raise cash means the sale of public lands, and rural America's shortage of doctors has many physicians skipping retirement.

Pre-K Pilot Program Introduced

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Monday, January 13, 2014   

BOISE, Idaho - Preschool as part of the educational system, instead of just "babysitting." That's the thought behind a pre-K pilot program being introduced today in Idaho. The legislation would establish high-quality, early education for at-risk children through a mix of state funding, private donations and money from businesses.

Rep. Hy Kloc (D-Boise), is sponsoring the bill.

"I think the groundswell - it's really getting close to a tipping point, where people really understand how beneficial preschool can be," Kloc said.

The legislature has resisted pitches to fund pre-K previously, and has also rejected moves to establish standards and regulations for preschools.

Kloc said it's time to acknowledge that the early years are part of the education continuum, and it has been well researched that the first five years of a child's life can set the stage for later success - or failure.

"When I talk to other legislators, they're not just throwing up a wall. Some are, but for the most part, they're letting me tell them what I see as the need," he said.

Kloc found that some legislators say they don't see any data to show the benefits of pre-K in Idaho, so the three-year pilot would provide local data. Idaho Kids Count has found that about 80 percent of children under age 5 live in families with parents working outside the home.

Kloc will unveil the legislation at a news conference today at 10 a.m. at the Idaho Statehouse, WW17.



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