Udall, Heinrich Introduce Strong Start for America's Children Act

Press Release

Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich joined a group of senators in introducing the Strong Start for America's Children Act to expand quality preschool programs in New Mexico and throughout the country. The Strong Start for America's Children Act is a 10-year innovative federal-state partnership to expand and improve early learning opportunities for children from birth to age 5.

"Quality preschool can transform a child, helping them start kindergarten ready to learn and become more successful as they grow up. Every child deserves the best chance to succeed that we can provide, but too many New Mexico children don't have access even to basic child care or preschool programs," Udall said. "This bill will help more children in New Mexico access quality early learning programs that provide a foundation that will help them throughout their lives. It complements my SONG Act, which I introduced earlier this year to make the investments that will help improve access to education and anti-poverty programs that we know will help improve child well-being across New Mexico."

"Investing in early childhood education will generate a significant return for New Mexico and the country. This bill expands high-quality early learning opportunities that promote healthy development, and prepare our kids for long-term academic achievement." Heinrich said. "Ensuring children have access to quality and affordable education at every age will improve child well-being, help students compete for 21st century jobs, and bolster New Mexico's struggling economy."

Research has shown that children who attend high-quality preschool programs are more likely to graduate from high school and have higher earnings as adults, and less likely to be held back in school, require remedial education, engage in criminal activity, or use social safety net programs later in life. Read more about the Strong Start for America's Children Act.

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