As you all may know our country is in yet another economical hardship. And the funding for our Head Start program is at risk of being cut off from the government budget. This program is an essential stepping stone for our children’s future.
For those of you unfamiliar with the Head Start program, this is a federal program that promotes the school readiness of children ages birth to five from low-income families by enhancing their cognitive, social, and emotional development. Head Start programs provide a learning environment that supports the children’s growth in language, literacy, health, physical, emotional and social development. Head Start emphasizes the role of parents as their child’s first and most important teacher.
I am a mother of 4 and so far I have 1 who graduated from the program and 1 currently enrolled and 1 on the waiting list. I have seen my children grow in so many different ways both socially and emotionally. From counting, to singing, reciting days of the week, colors and shapes. They encourage the interaction and participation with parents and their children. They want us involved in school readiness, and I believe in today’s society this is what we need.
More and more children grow up without parent involvement, and these generations of children need it. I am very pleased to say that in the 3 years being a part of the Head Start program, they truly exceed the set standards and take pride in their work. Teachers and staff are constantly going out of their way to make sure our children are safe, happy, and learning. They develop a family like relationship with the children, which give the kids the confidence they need to want to go to school, and enjoy going to school. They provide resources to families who may be in struggle or in need of any type of assistance. Head Start makes a strong impact in the lives of the families enrolled.
I believe if we lose this, it’s the children who lose out, and it’s the children who are going to suffer. The funding for this program is not only needed, but is a necessity to our children’s future. So I ask you to agree with me, and let our voices be heard to let the Congress know how important the funding to the Head Start Program. The funding for this program is not only needed, but is a necessity to our children’s future.
/s/ Raelanna Trevino