Gov. Pritzker Launches Smart Start Tour with Visits to Springfield, Metro East, and Mount Vernon

Statement

Governor JB Pritzker launched the "Smart Start' statewide tour, visiting locations across the state to announce historic investments in early childhood education. Joined by local and community leaders, the Governor kicked off the tour with three stops at schools and early childhood centers in Springfield, East St. Louis, and Mount Vernon to highlight his administration's plan to transform the state's system of early childhood education and care.

Beginning with a $250 million investment this year, Smart Start Illinois is a multi-year plan to provide every child with access to preschool, increase funding to childcare providers to raise wages and quality, invest in new and expanded early childhood facilities, and reach more vulnerable families with early support.

"Access to quality childcare and early childhood education yields better results for children and parents alike," said Governor JB Pritzker. "It gives us the best return on investment of any government expenditure, and it sets our kids up for success in kindergarten, elementary school, and beyond -- even yielding higher graduation rates. From home visiting services from birth to age three, childcare for infants as young as six weeks old, and pre-schools -- Smart Start Illinois is a comprehensive plan to build one of the best early childhood systems in the nation."

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