On the recordMay 21, 2015
Family income shouldn't dictate a child's educational outcome; but today, study after study shows that children from lower-income families face unique social, emotional, and financial challenges that lead them to start school already behind their peers. We began addressing this problem in 1965 when President Lyndon Johnson established the Head Start program. Fifty years later, over 30 million of our most vulnerable children have benefited from Head Start and a more level playing field. In Illinois today, there are 48 Head Start programs across the State. These programs not only provide opportunities for more than 40,000 Illinois children and their families each year, but they also give tens of thousands of passionate educators the chance to give our most needy children a shot at success. This week, as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Head Start, I urge my colleagues to stand with me in support of this vital program. I look forward to ensuring that all children can have an equal opportunity to succeed. I want to salute our troops, our veterans, and those who gave their lives as we move into Memorial Day. ____________________
