50th Anniversary of the Head Start Programs

Floor Speech

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Ms. LINDA T. SÁNCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Head Start program. Since its enactment, Head Start has helped more than 30 million families prepare for a lifetime of learning. Last year, nearly 36 thousand children in my district were a part of this program.

Head Start's fundamental purpose is to ensure that every child starts life on an equal playing field, regardless of their parents' income, country of origin, or zip code. It provides hard-working families access to comprehensive preschool programs that include nutritional, social and other services critical to early childhood development. Education is our nation's great equalizer--and few investments are more meaningful and have a larger return to society than programs like Head Start.

It's simple: when children receive quality, early childhood education, we give them the best chance to succeed. Studies have shown that kids who have been through Head Start are healthier, more academically accomplished, and more likely to make positive contributions to society.

My family understands first-hand just how life changing this program is. Head Start gave my family the tools we needed to succeed; tools that stretched well beyond the classroom. I would not be here today if it were not for the life changing resources and quality education that Head Start provided. On this 50th anniversary of Head Start, I renew my commitment to strengthening and extending this vital program, so that every child--regardless of their circumstance--has the best opportunity and chance to succeed in life.

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