April 12, 2011

Godfrey, Taborsak Support Quality Early Childcare, Education Programs

State Representatives Bob Godfrey (D-110th) and Joe Taborsak (D-109th) joined together in hosting Danbury Children First at this year’s Early Childhood Alliance Advocacy Day at the Legislative Office Building.

Speaking before the alliance, Rep. Godfrey highlighted some of the proposed legislation impacting young children and the programs that service them. “We must keep in mind that the children are our future,” said Rep. Godfrey. “In a year marked by budget deficits, program cuts and reduction in services to young children, the state must focus on what is truly important and the impact any funding cuts would bring.”

“Danbury receives only 21% of its education funding from the state, so at least maintaining the state level funding is critical to our children’s education,” said Rep. Taborsak. “This is particularly important in these tough economic times with cities getting less tax and other revenue while experiencing a higher demand for services by residents. “

“The Governor’s budget mostly maintains early childhood services funding, educational grants to cities, and parent leadership funding,” said Linda Kosko, Executive Director Danbury Children First. “The Governor’s priorities are our priorities that ensure our children’s services are maintained in this tough economic climate.”

Having all children ready to succeed in school is Danbury Children First’s priority. For the 2011 legislative session, the goals are to continue current funding levels that:

1. Supports quality, affordable childcare while parents work, (school readiness, state funded-centers, Care4Kids, and quality enhancement)
   
2. Maintains state education funding for schools,(ECS, state grants)
   
3. More effectively delivers early childhood services (SB 1106, An Act Concerning the Establishment of the Dept. of Early Education and Child Development)
   
4. Support the parent leadership trust at $500,000 per year

According to Director Kosko of Danbury Children First, 500 Danbury children benefit from school readiness and state funded childcare centers and 434 children benefit from the Care4Kids subsidy program. “Cuts to these programs would put our neediest children at risk from getting a good start in school,” said Kosko. “The Governor’s budget has maintained flat funding for these programs except for a small decrease in the Care4Kids program. At least 400 more young children could use subsidized childcare services in Danbury.”