As children make their lists for Santa, there's one item Gov. Andrew Cuomo needs to deliver to New York's children this year: More high-quality early education programs.
In September, the New NY Education Reform Commission visited Albany for one of 11 meetings held around the state to gather input from experts. The Capital District Child Care Council was part of that discussion, and our message then is the same today: Children who start behind, stay behind.
The commission will soon be making recommendations to the governor on improvements to the state's struggling education system. As members of Winning Beginning NY, we join early childhood supporters in asking the commission to include this recommendation to Governor Cuomo: Ensure access to high-quality pre-kindergarten and child care for every New York family.
Brain research has come a long way. Today, we know the first years are the most crucial learning period in a child's life. Seventy-five percent of brain development and 85 percent of intellect, personality and social skills develop before a child starts kindergarten.
That is why ensuring access and quality must include the expansion of QUALITYstarsNY, the state's five-star rating program for early childhood programs. Just increasing access to programs isn't enough, they must be of high quality. The benefits last a lifetime.
These benefits extend to communities, reducing the need for costly remedial education and social programs.
Given the economic climate, we know the commission and the governor face tough choices. There are countless needs in reforming our struggling schools — with very little funding. But to make reform efforts successful, New York should recognize that our education system starts at birth.
Ensuring access and quality of child care for every family is a gift that will keep on giving: Helping children and families, strengthening schools, boosting the economy and making sure the Empire State remains competitive for decades to come.
KATE SMITH
Communications director
Capital District
Child Care Council
Menands