Early Education Essential, Senators Say
Maxamina Catian helps a child in the Keiki Steps early education demonstration to build with blocks.
Senators stressed the need for early childhood education this morning with visits to the annual Champions for Children event and a press conference discussing bills related to children and education. Organizations like Child & Family Service, YMCA and Head Start hosted educational booths at the Capitol, and the Keiki Steps program provided an example of a play-and-learn preschool group.
Among the bills introduced this session is Senate Bill 2878, which establishes a similar Keiki First Steps Program to educate children from ages 0 to 5. The legislation, introduced by Sen. Norman Sakamoto (D- Kalihi, Moanalua Gardens, Salt Lake, Aliamanu, Foster Village, Hickam, Pearl Harbor, Pearl Ridge,`Aiea), says that early learning systems will produce long-term benefits for children that include school success, reduced crime, reduced dropout rates and increased workforce productivity.
Sen. Will Espero visits with a representative from the PATCH child care agency at the Champions for Children event.
According to the bill, Hawai`i’s children need support and guidance starting at birth to reach their full potential as citizens. A comprehensive early learning system provides quality opportunities for young children.
“It definitely makes a big difference,” Keiki Steps Kapolei Site Coordinator Nalei Faurot said, describing the progress her own children have experienced because of their early-learning involvement.
Senate Bill 2878 also gives priority to disadvantaged families and at-risk children and establishes a diverse council that will ensure the learning system is sensitive to family choice and cultural elements.
The bill was co-introduced by Sens. Chun Oakland, Hooser, Nishihara, Tokuda and Tsutsui and was co-signed by Sens. Baker, Espero, Gabbard, Ige, Kim, Taniguchi and Trimble.
Sakamoto, Education Committee Chair, urged the public at the press conference to support keiki and education-related measures this session.
“It’s hard to argue that they shouldn’t move forward…(but) are we willing to do what it takes to fund these programs?” Sakamoto asked.
A child from Keiki Steps early education program presents Sen. Norman Sakamoto with a lei.