Homer Alaska - Letters

The Legislature is currently working on two very important bills that can have positive long-term effects for our children, our schools and, ultimately, our economy. Reps. Les Gara, Chris Tuck and Scott Kawasaki have introduced HB49 which supports funding for the Parents As Teachers program. This excellent program is currently serving a few families in Homer, but we would like to see it available to all young families.

HB154 is another important bill deserving of our support. Educational programs for 3- and 4-year-olds will help ensure that all children enter kindergarten ready to succeed. Kindergarten teachers in Homer have told me that many children enter school with insufficient vocabulary and unprepared to sit still for a story. Many children have not had preschool experiences that help them develop the social and emotional readiness for school. A strong early education has shown to improve graduation rates and eventual success in the work force.

I urge everyone to write letters of support to our legislators encouraging them to pass these important education bills.

Lolita Brache

Kachemak Kids Early Learning Center,

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Families First: A Best Beginnings Partnership,

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