I'd like to thank the staff and families of the Robbinsdale Family Literacy program for their participation in a recent hearing on early childhood education. As co-chair of the Minnesota Legislative Early Childhood Caucus, I work with lawmakers to strengthen support for programs geared to Minnesota's youngest learners. We focus on the kind of smart investments that help create stronger students, a highly skilled workforce and a vibrant economy - a principle shared by economists, educators and business leaders, including the Twin West Chamber of Commerce.

The Robbinsdale School District has long been considered a leader in early childhood, a great source of pride in our community. Their early literacy program is one of the best examples of innovation that works. The curriculum is uniquely targeted to boost school readiness for at-risk 3 and 4 year olds, many from families where English is not the first language. Children learn a variety of skills to better prepare them to enter kindergarten. At the same time, their parents prepare for success in school or work by strengthening their English and literacy skills, and take parenting classes that reinforce their children's progress.

More than any state budget item, early childhood funding represents our hopes, values and goals for Minnesota's children. Those investments continue to provide the best return on investment, an important consideration in times of scarce resources. Beyond smart economics, that support can open doors for every child to reach their highest potential, something we can all be proud of.

Sandra Peterson (DFL) 45A
345 State Office Building
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155
(651) 296-4176

E-mail: rep.sandra.peterson@house.mn