Statement on FY18 Early Childhood Education Hearing

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to the Appropriations Subcommittee hearing on Early Childhood Education Programs at the Department of Health and Human Services, the following statement should be attributed to Yasmina Vinci, executive director of the National Head Start Association:

“With the release of the White House’s Fiscal Year 2018 ‘skinny budget’ and the prospect of an almost 18% budget cut looming, it is imperative lawmakers continue robust investment in domestic priorities, especially early childhood education. Head Start programs across the country offer critical and quality early learning services to a million vulnerable children and their families each year. Today’s hearing reflects the strong leadership of Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK-4)  and Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-3) and the Subcommittee’s continued commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to pursue the American dream. It was a positive step forward in the midst of the disconcerting news being generated by the release of the Administration Fiscal Year 2018 spending priorities. Head Start looks forward to continuing to work with Chairman Cole, Ranking Member DeLauro, and the rest of the Subcommittee to keep the national commitment to investing in the future of our nation’s most vulnerable children and families.”