All kids deserve the opportunity to succeed, but not all kids have access to the programs they need to build a foundation for success. Children who attend high-quality early childhood education programs are better prepared for kindergarten, and that advantage persists throughout their academic careers.
High-quality early childhood education is one of the best investments we can make in closing that opportunity gap. In addition, putting money into early childhood education increases the potential earnings for Washingtonians and lowers costs in K-12 education, the criminal justice system, and health care.
That’s why I’ve introduced House Bill 1351, which will expand eligibility and access to the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP), which provides wraparound services for low- income families, including education, health and nutrition, and family support.
In addition, my bill creates a state-funded, birth-to-three ECEAP pilot project, which would provide low-income families with state-run early childhood education and support services during a critical time in their child’s brain development.
Learn more about the benefits of early childhood education and how the expansion of ECEAP will help close the opportunity gap in this week’s GoodMinute.
As always, feel free to reach out if you have comments, questions, or ideas.
All best wishes,
Roger Goodman
Representative, 45th District
Washington State Legislature