Preschool drive sputters without funding

August 23, 2008

YOUR AUG. 17 editorial "Learning, early and often" showed that despite the well-documented benefits of early education, Massachusetts has a long way to go to support this strategic investment in our future.

Many pre-kindergarten programs such as ours are accredited and have met the quality standards necessary to qualify for the universal pre-kindergarten, or UPK, grant program from the state. However, there is not nearly enough funding to meet demand. The Legislature approved $12.1 million in UPK funds this year - a $5 million increase - but as you note, $600 million is needed.

Our program has qualified for a UPK grant for the past two years, but has failed to receive funding because of insufficient resources. The grant funding is critical because it would allow us and other high-quality early-education centers to purchase new supplies, provide professional development for our teachers, and increase salaries so as to reduce staff turnover.

Early education is one of the best investments a state can make in its future workforce. Governor Patrick and the Legislature have talked a lot about the importance of universal pre-kindergarten, and now is the time for action.

DEB ANSOURLIAN
Executive director
Hattie B. Cooper Community Center
Roxbury