Illinois
Our 2010 Policy Priorities:
- Urge Governor Quinn to sign SB 2594/HB 5322.
- Fully support the “Preschool for All” program by restoring Early Childhood Block Grant funding back to the FY 09 level of $380 million.
- Support full funding for the childcare assistance program for working families in the Illinois Department of Human Services.
Did you know that in Illinois:
- 3.1 million children (to the age of 18) live in the state;
- Almost 1 out of every 3 children live in a household with only one parent;
- Approximately 500,000 young children under age 5 are not served by regulated early care and education settings;
- 67 percent of eighth graders are below grade level in math;
- 67 percent of fourth graders are reading below grade level; and
- 26 percent of high school students do not graduate on time with a high school diploma.
America’s Edge Releases New Report in Illinois Showing Short-Term Economic Benefits of Investing in Early Learning.
Click here to read the full report.
On May 17, 2010, the Joliet Herald-News published an op-ed by America’s Edge member Monica Barichello highlighting the short-term economic benefits of investing in early learning programs in Illinois. Click here to read the article.
The Quincy Herald Whig’s story about the release- “Cheerful Home cites funding shortfalls in Illinois in decision to drop preschool program.”
“Cutting early child care and education programs would be short-sighted and bad business for Illinois.”
–Bill Cox, The Brown Drug Company, Quincy, IL
*For more information, please contact Alena Chaps at (312) 288-8229 or achaps@AmericasEdge.org