Kansas Considers Lowering Mandatory School Start Age to 6

Lawmakers cite bipartisan support for earlier school start, but parents have mixed views.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Kansas lawmakers are considering a bill to lower the mandatory school start age from seven to six years old, citing bipartisan support that the current age of seven is too late. The proposed change has sparked debate among parents in the state about the appropriate age for children to begin formal schooling.

Why it matters

The decision on when children should start school is a contentious issue that impacts families, educators, and the overall education system. Lowering the mandatory start age could have significant implications for child development, school resources, and family schedules.

The details

The bill, HB 2717, was introduced by Representative Susan Estes, who says there is bipartisan agreement at the state level that the current age of seven is too late for children to begin formal schooling. Most kids in Kansas currently start school around ages 5 or 6, but the state currently allows parents to wait until age 7.

  • The bill, HB 2717, was introduced in the Kansas legislature in 2026.

The players

Susan Estes

A Kansas state representative who introduced the bill to lower the mandatory school start age from 7 to 6.

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What they’re saying

“Right now there's a bipartisan belief at the state level that seven is too late.”

— Susan Estes, Kansas State Representative (foxkansas.com)

What’s next

The Kansas legislature will continue to debate and consider the bill to lower the mandatory school start age.

The takeaway

The debate over when children should begin formal schooling is an ongoing issue that balances educational, developmental, and family considerations. The proposed change in Kansas highlights the complex tradeoffs involved in setting the appropriate mandatory school start age.