[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 79 (Wednesday, May 18, 2016)]
[House]
[Page H2711]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HEAD START
(Mr. CICILLINE asked and was given permission to address the House
for 1 minute.)
Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 51st
anniversary of the creation of Head Start.
In my home State of Rhode Island, Head Start serves 2,500 children,
including 100 homeless children and 500 children with special needs.
Head Start is proven and effective. Young people who participate in
Head Start have increased graduation rates, are less likely to become
pregnant as teens, have improved economic opportunities, and are less
likely to be involved in crime.
Every dollar invested in Head Start saves up to $7 in future costs.
In the 20th century, the United States set the standard in education
and had the highest graduation rates around the world. Today, we rank
12th in college graduation and 26th in access to preschool for 4-year-
olds.
If we are serious about providing the next generation with the skills
they need to be successful and to compete in a global economy, it is
critical that we significantly increase our investments in Head Start.
Congratulations to Head Start on your 51st anniversary. Thank you for
all that you do.
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