David Durenberger: “I rise to support final passage of S. 2000, legislation reauthorizing the Community Service Block Grant Act and the Head…”

“I rise to support final passage of S. 2000, legislation reauthorizing the Community Service Block Grant Act and the Head Start Act. I have supported both of these important programs during my entire 16 years of service in the Senate and look forward to swift completion of this reauthorization, hopefully in time to be signed into law on Head Start's 30th anniversary, on May 18. This Head Start reauthorization enjoys strong bi-partisan support at least in part because of the extensive consultation that went into its drafting. And, on the merits, this bill deserves passage because it responds to the growing interest in using Head Start expansion funds to improve quality, as well as expand the numbers of children served. There is no question that initiatives to improve quality must include more business-like management practices in Head Start programs, increased compensation for teachers and other employees, upgraded facilities, and other program 'inputs'. But, I also believe this authorization will force increased attention to improved outcomes--improved health and nutrition for children, better preparation for kindergarten, lower levels of family illiteracy, and--in general--better support low income families. I am also hopeful that this reauthorization will contribute to a greater degree of collaboration between Head Start and child care and other child and family support services in each local community.”