Congressman Tierney is a strong advocate of early education initiatives. Knowing that an estimated 80% of three year olds in Massachusetts are not enrolled in a state pre-K or Head Start program, Congressman Tierney has been working to improve and expand the federal government’s commitment to Head Start, which is our country’s primary early education program.

To that end, Congressman Tierney along with his colleagues on the committee developed legislation that renews Head Start programs in a way that improves teacher quality and helps serve more children. The bill included an increase of funds for teacher and staff salaries and professional development. Congressman Tierney also noted that the measure, which passed the House and now awaits consideration by the Senate, would also better prepare children for school by reevaluating and updating current learning standards. During the debate, Congressman Tierney spoke on the House floor in support of the bill. Click HERE to view the Congressman deliver his statement.

This legislation, which is known as the Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007, was approved by the Senate and signed into law in December 2007.