[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 93 (Wednesday, May 31, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Pages S1837-S1838]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     58TH ANNIVERSARY OF HEAD START

  Mr. LUJAN. Mr. President, I rise today to commemorate and extend my 
heartfelt congratulations to Head Start on its 58th anniversary to 
celebrate the program's 58 years of providing early learning to more 
than 30 million children since 1965. As the only Head Start alumnus 
along with Senator Raphael Warnock serving in the U.S. Senate, I am 
proud to honor this transformative program that has made a significant 
and positive difference in the lives of millions of children and 
families across our great Nation.
  Head Start's legacy is one of hope, opportunity, and equity. Since 
its inception in 1965, this comprehensive early childhood education 
program has been a beacon of support for vulnerable children and 
families, helping break the cycle of poverty and providing a strong 
foundation for success. By prioritizing the educational, health, and 
developmental needs of low-income children, Head Start has been 
instrumental in leveling the playing field and ensuring that every 
child has an equal chance to thrive.
  My personal experience as a Head Start alumnus fuels my unwavering 
commitment to championing policies that strengthen early childhood 
education and invest in the future of our Nation's youth. I understand 
firsthand the profound influence that Head Start can have on a child's 
life, setting them on a trajectory towards academic achievement, 
social-emotional growth, and lifelong success. By nurturing the whole 
child and fostering a love for learning, Head Start equips children 
with the tools they need to reach their full potential.
  Head Start has demonstrated its ability to adapt and evolve with the 
changing needs of our society. Over the past 58 years, the program has 
expanded its reach, providing comprehensive services to millions of 
children and families. Head Start has embraced innovation, 
incorporating evidence-based practices and leveraging community 
partnerships to ensure that children receive the highest quality early 
education and support services available.
  I applaud Head Start's ongoing commitment to inclusivity and 
diversity, recognizing that every child brings unique strengths and 
experiences to the classroom. By embracing cultural competency and 
promoting bilingual education, Head Start celebrates the rich tapestry 
of our nation and prepares children to thrive in an increasingly 
interconnected world.

[[Page S1838]]

  As we celebrate this important milestone, we must also acknowledge 
the challenges that lie ahead. Access to high-quality early childhood 
education remains a critical issue for many families, especially those 
living in underserved communities. As Head Start continues to grow and 
evolve, we must redouble our efforts to ensure that all children, 
regardless of their ZIP Code or socioeconomic background, have access 
to this life-changing program.
  Head Start's success is a testament to the power of investing in our 
children and communities. The return on investment in early childhood 
education is well documented, yielding significant long-term benefits 
for individuals, families, and society as a whole. We must seize this 
moment to strengthen and expand Head Start, recognizing that our 
Nation's future prosperity depends on the opportunities we afford our 
youngest citizens.
  I would also like to express my gratitude and provide special 
recognition to my home Head Start program that helped to give me the 
best start in life--Nambe Head Start--and Senator Warnock's home Head 
Start program--Savannah Head Start. Without the dedicated educators and 
program directors at these programs, we would not be where we are 
today.
  In conclusion, I proudly stand before my distinguished colleagues to 
commemorate the 58th anniversary of Head Start and extend my heartfelt 
congratulations to this remarkable program. Let Congress reaffirm its 
commitment to early childhood education and its Members work together 
to ensure that Head Start's profound effect reaches every child in 
need. By investing in our children today, we will build a brighter, 
more equitable future for all Americans.

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