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State Representative Rick Hansen
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-6828
For more information contact: Matt Swenson 651-297-8406
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EARLY CHILDHOOD INITIATIVE MOVING FORWARD IN HOUSE
ST. PAUL – The House Early Childhood Learning Finance Division unveiled their early childhood education recently, delivering on a commitment to make early childhood education a key priority in the House.
"This plan delivers on the clear goals we set for early childhood education at the start of the session," said Rep. Rick Hansen (DFL – South St. Paul), a supporter of the plan. "The proposal would narrow the achievement gap, increase quality childcare-options for families, and increase citizen engagement in early childhood and family education. This is an excellent plan for our state."
The proposed legislation provides significant funding increases for ECFE, school readiness and Head Start programs, expands professional development for early childhood and pre-school teachers, and provides funding for community and family education programs. The $40 million package uses a combination of new and one-time money, and restores funding to pre-2003 levels. That year, early childhood funding was slashed and programs cut as a result of the state's massive budget deficit.
The bulk of new funding would go towards programs designed to prepare 3 and 4-year -olds to enter school ready to learn. According to some studies, more than half of the children entering kindergarten lack basic skills necessary to succeed in school. Children with quality early learning experiences are 40 percent less likely to need special education or to be held back a grade. An often-cited study by the Federal Reserve Bank in Minneapolis estimates that every $1 invested in early education creates a return of between $7-17.
“Investing in early childhood education has a tremendous payback for Minnesotans," said Rep. Hansen. “Such investments should be a cornerstone of good government budget policy. I feel that this proposal will make such an investment and provide a positive future for our children and this state."
News Items
- Rep. Rick Hansen chosen as leader of Great Lakes Legislative Caucus - (Posted: Dec 27 2012 8:34AM)
- Need Holiday Gifts? Consider DNR Gift Cards - (Posted: 2012-11-27 00:00:00)
- Looking Forward to Serving, Getting the Job Done - (Posted: 2012-11-14 00:00:00)
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