Murphy Commends Bye, Connecticut State Senate on Passage of Early Childhood Education Reform

Press Release

Congressman Chris Murphy (D-Cheshire) congratulated state Senator Beth Bye and the entire Senate for passing major improvements to the state's early childhood education system:

"Today was a major step forward for Connecticut's young children and the state's future. Study after study shows that investing in comprehensive, quality early education and childcare sets children up for success. This legislation will pay long-term dividends, helping us compete in a global economy and reducing drop-out rates. I applaud Senator Bye, the entire Senate and the state's early learning community for investing in our kids and our future."

The state Senate passed two pieces of legislation today authored by Senator Bye. The first would create a coordinated system of early childhood education incorporating prenatal care and care for children from birth to eight years old. The second bill would improve standards for professionals teaching young children. The legislation must now pass through the state House. It is supported by Governor Dannel P. Malloy.

Last week, the U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, announced a "Race to the Top-Early Learning Challenge," a competitive grant program designed to encourage states to achieve excellence in early childhood education. The reforms passed by the Senate today will increase Connecticut's chances of winning a grant under the program.

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