Head Start matters

What a perfect time to see The Gazette’s editorial about child care and Head Start! Thank you for bringing this need to our attention. I just got back into Iowa after spending a day in Washington, D.C. advocating with members of Save the Children Action Network for Head Start and the need to continue funding for such a strong program.

I have worked in the early child care field for over 46 years, and I have done evaluations of staff in several local Head Start programs. I have witnessed the value of this program. It is not only preparing the children to succeed but helping parents learn valuable skills as well. Truly an invaluable program for our economy and education system.

So many children are on Early Head Start and Head Start waiting lists due to lack of funding. Our children can’t wait. They need the best program possible during birth through 5 years old when the brain is the most active.

I’m asking parents, grandparents and anyone who cares about the future of young children to reach out to your representatives and let them know that Head Start matters!

Cathy Meyer

Anamosa