Members of five nonprofit membership organizations - comprising voices of business, retired military leaders, law enforcement, faith and sports - produced a video, showing their support for preschool. Ready Nation is urging early childhood advocates and supporters to watch the video, then use it to spread the word about the importance of quality early childhood experiences.

Advocacy and Learning Opportunities   

National 

Nebraska

(PHOTO: KFOR)

Early Childhood Sustains Legislative Bipartisan Support

During the 2014 legislative session, which adjourned without a future date, Nebraska senators debated bills covering a range of diverse topics. Quality early childhood education, however, remained an important topic of discussion. Take the mainline budget bill, which allocates $3.2 million in grants to help schools start or expand high-quality funds. This bill also invest $400,000 in Nurturing Healthy Behaviors, which helps parents and early childhood providers support social and emotional development  for all children. Learn more, then thank Nebraska's Senators and Governor Dave Heineman. 

Kentucky

Become an Effective Child Advocate

Last month, we reported victories in Kentucky's legislature on everything from a boost in child care and preschool funding to laws that help grandparents raising grandchildren access health care and education services for their grandkids. Let's continue celebrating, while preparing for our next advocacy opportunity. Read Kentucky Youth Advocates' "Ways to become an effective child advocates," then share with your friends. 

Strengthening Businesses through Investments in Pre-K

The Pennsylvania Partnership for Children is advocating for two things: fixing special education funding and securing additional investments in pre-K. New bills in the Pennsylvania House and Senate will establish a new special education funding formula based on student enrollment and the severity of students' needs. Sign up to show your support. On the issue of pre-K investments, the Pennsylvania Partnership for Children explains the math is simple: all of Pennsylvania's children + access to pre-K = 28,000 new jobs and $1.8 billion local sales. Download the new report, Strengthening Pennsylvania Businesses through Investments in Pre-Kindergarten, which supports that equation, then join "Pre-K for PA".