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6.04.08 | Partnering to make early childhood education a statewide priority
The Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation has joined in a unique partnership with the Montana Governor's Office and the National Association of Governors to guide an initiative that places early childhood education in the forefront of our learning system. Early childhood education is one of our Foundation's focal points with long-term investment in projects and programs in communities throughout the region. The move towards partnering with the Governor's Office began with the Business Leaders Summit on School Readiness, followed by the economic impact study of early childhood education. Now that the impact study is complete, the Foundation will work with its partners towards the appropriate next steps.
The study has pointed to the immense importance of the learning that occurs between birth and age eight and the marked advantages children who have received quality early education have when they enter the school system. In addition, a child's learning, access to quality, affordable, early educational opportunities allows parents in the workforce to steadily build skills in their jobs while easing the pressure of finding and funding the level of childcare their child needs. Parents with access to early childhood education programs for their children stay in their jobs longer and advance at a more consistent rate within their positions.
As a long-term result, obtaining quality education at an early age benefits children throughout their lives. They are more likely to graduate from high school, go on to college and to be ready join the workforce with the skills and productivity necessary to be successful in a knowledge-based economy. Early childhood education also increases their likelihood to own a home, have a job, and to avoid dropping out of high school or becoming involved in criminal activity.
Investing in early childhood education now ensures a return that is measurable in tax dollars saved in the long run and an improved quality of life for generations to come. Please read more about the economic impact study and what business, government and the early care and education industry can do to partner and ensure the successful implementation of this important educational platform.
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