[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 76 (Monday, May 18, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E736]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HEAD START PROGRAMS

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. LINDA T. SANCHEZ

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 18, 2015

  Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to 
celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Head Start program. Since its 
enactment, Head Start has helped more than 30 million families prepare 
for a lifetime of learning. Last year, nearly 36 thousand children in 
my district were a part of this program.
  Head Start's fundamental purpose is to ensure that every child starts 
life on an equal playing field, regardless of their parents' income, 
country of origin, or zip code. It provides hard-working families 
access to comprehensive preschool programs that include nutritional, 
social and other services critical to early childhood development. 
Education is our nation's great equalizer--and few investments are more 
meaningful and have a larger return to society than programs like Head 
Start.
  It's simple: when children receive quality, early childhood 
education, we give them the best chance to succeed. Studies have shown 
that kids who have been through Head Start are healthier, more 
academically accomplished, and more likely to make positive 
contributions to society.
  My family understands first-hand just how life changing this program 
is. Head Start gave my family the tools we needed to succeed; tools 
that stretched well beyond the classroom. I would not be here today if 
it were not for the life changing resources and quality education that 
Head Start provided. On this 50th anniversary of Head Start, I renew my 
commitment to strengthening and extending this vital program, so that 
every child--regardless of their circumstance--has the best opportunity 
and chance to succeed in life.

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