Standing Together: Duncan and Sebelius Support Bill for Early Learning Grants

This morning the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2009, which includes a provision establishing Early Learning Challenge Grants for states, got another push, this time from Education Secretary Arne Duncan and Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.

Speaking at a child care center for children of employees at the two departments, Duncan stressed the importance of “world-class standards” and data-driven programs in early education, and Sebelius underscored that the legislation would link early learning initiatives to programs that emphasize children’s health and well-being.

It was just a start for a bill that still has many congressional hurdles to clear, but it was encouraging to see the two department heads stand in the same room and give their early support for the program. Not only does the legislation require the two departments to jointly administer the program, but better coordination between the two agencies – and their counterparts at the state level – will be key to successful implementation of other early childhood programs proposed by the Obama administration.