|
May 2015
Making Quality Early Education a Priority
After years of devastating cuts, 2015 has seen the re-emergence of early education as an issue of national importance, and one of the best investments we can make for our children. The early years of a child's development lays the foundation for success in school and life. Research tells us that early childhood education leads to greater academic success, a decreased likelihood of contact with the juvenile justice system, and better careers with higher pay. With so much to gain, it is critical that we work to articulate what quality early learning looks like for our youngest learners.
As Alameda County Superintendent of Schools, I have committed to supporting the county's youngest children to have the strong start they need. I am proud to announce that we have received $3 million to lead efforts with First 5 Alameda County to support early childhood educators and help define the standard for quality care and learning in our communities. I have also convened early education leaders in Alameda County to articulate how to best support our youngest students and prepare them for a successful transition to our K-12 schools. On a state and national level, ACOE sits on the National Quality Rating & Improvement System (QRIS) Consortium, a network of state and local educational agencies working to enhance the quality of care and learning to support child development.
Ensuring access to early childhood education and child care is crucial. But to ensure that we are preparing our children for success, we need a clear focus on quality instruction. I invite you to join me in keeping early learning a priority to support the right to quality education and care for our youngest students.
L. Karen Monroe
Superintendent, Alameda County Schools
|
