Congressman Anthony Brown Urges The Inclusion Of Universal Pre-K In Build Back Better Plan

Statement

Congressman Anthony G. Brown (MD-04) released the following statement urging the inclusion of universal pre-kindergarten in the upcoming Build Back Better plan:

"One of the greatest sources of inequality in our country is the inability for every family to access early childhood education. When we give every child the opportunity to succeed, every child can succeed, and set themselves down the path toward long-term achievement.

"Universal pre-kindergarten helps provide a strong foundation for our kids to grow and develop into lifelong learners. There's a big difference when a child starts kindergarten with a 3,000-word vocabulary or an 8,000-word vocabulary. These skills can exponentially improve educational and career opportunities for our kids. But the benefits go beyond the classroom. Universal pre-K breaks down barriers for parents, particularly mothers, in the workforce, ensuring good-paying jobs, increasing lifetime earnings, and helping families make ends meet.

"In Maryland, under the O'Malley-Brown Administration, we took steps forward by expanding pre-kindergarten to an additional 4,000 children in our state. And the "Blueprint for Maryland's Future" expanded pre-K programs, essential to future academic success, including eligibility for all 4-year-olds, as well as 3-year-olds from low-income families.

"We now have an opportunity to expand this success nationwide, to benefit millions of children, particularly in communities of color and rural America. We need to seize this opportunity for the future of our kids and the well-being of families. I strongly urge my colleagues to include universal pre-kindergarten in the upcoming Build Back Better plan."

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