A Statement from Shaun McNally, CT Early Childhood Alliance Executive Director

Dear legislators and fellow child advocates:

On behalf of the Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance, I wish to congratulate you on being recognized as a “Children's Champion” for 2009.

Legislators were nominated by Alliance members based on legislative record and constituent service. Child care advocates in your district are thankful for your service on behalf of young children and sought to express their appreciation with this token of recognition.

Your effort is particularly appreciated in this difficult budget year. You, along with the Governor and your colleagues, have worked hard to shield kids from painful budget cuts to critical education, health and family support programs.

We know you share our belief that these programs are investments in a child's future. Studies show that one dollar spent today on high quality early care and education will be repaid many times over through reduced special education needs, lower drop out rates, reduced teen pregnancy and drug use, much lower rates of adult incarceration, as well as higher college graduation rates and long term income growth.

Today's kids are the foundation of tomorrow's economy. As you struggle to balance the state budget, please remember that wise investments made today set the stage for a more economically secure tomorrow.

So, on behalf of the Alliance, a group of organizations and individuals committed to improving developmental outcomes in the areas of learning, health, safety and economic security for children ages birth to eight, we say thank you.

Over 4,000 individuals in Connecticut support the Alliance as friends. Member organizations employ over 3,000 Connecticut residents and provide care and education for nearly 20,000 children. Our goal is to ensure all children born in Connecticut will enter kindergarten healthy, eager to learn, and ready for school success.

We honor you as a strong partner in our work and look forward to your continued support in the months and years ahead.

Sincerely,

Shaun McNally

Executive Director

Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance