“This is great news for kids and moves us one step closer to our goal of universal pre-k.” – Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch
Bridgeport, Conn. (December 10, 2014) – Today, the
federal government announced that Bridgeport, Conn. will be getting 180
new pre-k seats for kids, in addition to 90 renovation seats. These
pre-k seats will be funded by the federal government for the next four
years. It’s been awarded by the U.S. Departments of Education and Health
and Human Services through a competitive grant process and was
announced by the White House.
In response, Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch heralded this as great new for kids in the state’s largest city.
“This is great news for kids and moves us one step closer to
our goal of universal pre-k. As a parent, and mayor of the state's
largest city, I've seen firsthand how tough it is for kids who don't
have access to high-quality early childhood education. And research is
clear: If kids aren't reading at the level they should be by third
grade, they're less likely to graduate. We need to do more for our kids.
That’s why these funds are so important. Between today’s announcement,
and the additional seats given by Governor Malloy and the state
legislature, we’ve gained more than 325 new seats over the last two
years. It’s another great step in our effort to ensure all kids have
access good pre-k programs, which will help prepare them to one day
compete for 21st century jobs.”
Bridgeport Superintendent Fran Rabinowitz added that this is
good start toward getting all kids access to pre-k programs in the
city.
“I’m thrilled about this announcement. Currently, more than
one-in-four kids that are eligible for pre-k in Bridgeport do not have
access. That’s unacceptable. But thanks to these new seats, we’re moving
one step closer to achieving the goal of universal pre-k for kids. It’s
another example of how Bridgeport schools are getting better every
day.”
Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) highlighted that this is a smart investment by the federal government in a better future for kids.
“Early childhood education programs are some of the smartest
investments we can make as a nation to help children succeed and
improve our communities. I was proud to join the state and the city of
Bridgeport in pushing for this grant, which will boost the number of
pre-school spots for low and middle-income children in Bridgeport. I
will keep urging Congress to pass legislation I've introduced - modeled
on successful efforts in Bridgeport - to expand and improve early
education across the country.”