Education and Labor Hearing on Education Begins at Home Act
June 11th, 2008 by Jesse LeeToday the Education and Labor Committee held a hearing on bipartisan legislation that would help strengthen American families and help more children arrive at school ready to succeed by expanding access to early childhood home visitation programs for parents and children. Research shows that these programs, which provide a variety of services ranging from pre-natal medical care to school readiness and family literacy programs, can help improve student achievement, reduce child abuse rates, improve early identification of developmental delays and disabilities, and improve access to health services.
Chairman George Miller gave opening remarks:
Chairman Miller: “We must make [a] long-term commitment to promoting positive growth and development in our children – and in those who play the most significant role in their early years, their parents… Preparing children for success in schools and in life begins in the home. This legislation is about strengthening and supporting families – an investment that is in the best interests of our children, our communities, and our future.” |
Julie Fenley of the Parents as Teachers program in Norfolk, Virginia testified:
Julie Fenley: “We have 2 children who are both with us today – Meghan who is 7 years old and Zane, the handful, who is two. Our dream of being a military family started quite some time ago, but we officially started our Navy career in February of 2007…. Zane and I joined the Parents as Teachers Program shortly after we arrived in Virginia Beach. During our first couple visits with Miss Terrilyn Williams, who is our parent educator, Zane was timid and shy but now when she comes through the door he is always excited to see her… I would like to say in closing a special thank you to Miss Terrylinn Williams for making such an impact in our lives not only as a parent educator but as a friend. Thank you for your dedication to this program and for all your encouraging words and your knowledge. I feel so validated as a parent each time Miss Terrilyn visits. Once she leaves, it’s great for me, I feel so rewarded as a parent. Once again thank you for teaching me how to be my children’s best and most important teacher.” |