Senate Democrats Host Roundtable with Early Education Advocates

Early Childhood Education Advocates

Washington, D.C. – Today, Senate Democrats met with stakeholders and advocates in the field of early learning. The discussion focused on policies that are critical to expanding access to high-quality early learning for our youngest children. Participants expressed their support for the Strong Start for America’s Children Act and urged senators to protect funding for Head Start programs and the Child Care and Development Block Grant.

“As a dad to an 11 year-old son, I know first-hand the importance of early childhood education,” said Senator Mark Begich (D-AK), Chairman of the Democratic Steering and Outreach Committee. “I’ve introduced three bills designed to address access, quality, and affordability in early education and child care programs. I strongly believe all children deserve a safe, accessible and high-quality start to their education.”

“Today we heard from Tameka Henry, a parent of four, board member for our Head Start provider in Clark County, and strong advocate for children, about the struggle by low-income families to obtain quality early childhood education,” said Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV). “Evidence that early childhood learning is not only effective, but necessary, is well-documented. We will continue to focus on legislation designed to expand early childhood education opportunities.”

Studies suggest that more than a quarter of preschool-aged children are at a significant disadvantage before they even enter the schoolhouse door. Senate Democrats will continue to support policies that expand and improve early learning opportunities for children across the birth to age 5 continuum.

Photos from this event can be found HERE

 

###