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Bill aims to grow early childhood education workforce

A child sits on a bench with an open book. He is surrounded by shelves with other books on them
George Hodan
/
publicdomainpictures.net
A new bipartisan bill in Congress could help ease staffing shortages in early childhood education programs across the country, including in Central New York.

A bipartisan bill in Congress aims to boost the early childhood education workforce here in Central New York and across the country.

The legislation re-introduces the Head Start for Our Future Act, making child development and early education jobs eligible as community services under the Federal Work-Study program.

“Head Start is an investment in our future that helps make sure that every child has the support and services they need to thrive,” said Senator Gillibrand.

It’s intended to fast track students attending college and universities to get firsthand experience educating children in early developmental stages. Lawmakers say it will help alleviate ongoing staffing shortages.

Head Start programs to provide comprehensive child development services for low-income children, including early education, nutrition services, and advocacy for children with disabilities.

Alex Past is an undergraduate honors student studying Creative Media and Film at Northern Arizona University, expected to graduate in May 2027. As a content creator at WAER, Alex helps produce digital and radio news, podcasts and entertainment stories.