School Readiness Act of 2005
SCHOOL READINESS ACT OF 2005 -- (House of Representatives - September 22, 2005)
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Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of this bill, though I have concerns about one specific provision that would go too far to allow discrimination.
The basic tenet of Head Start is as true today as it was a generation ago--quality early education programs can be instrumental in helping children overcome barriers to learning. This program not only plays an important role in providing opportunities for the next generation but also has an important impact on our economy. For every dollar spent on Head Start, we receive seven dollars back. There are few federal programs that can boost that kind of success.
As a nation we must ensure that our children are prepared, academically, emotionally and nutritionally to enter school. Removing the outside forces that result in under-prepared students opens up children's minds to learn and gain an education. Head Start is one of the most important programs in our government and I am pleased to see this bill come to the floor with bipartisan support.
Unfortunately, I have concerns about an amendment passed by this body that allows faith-based Head Start grantees to discriminate in hiring based on religion. Federally supported programs should never support discrimination in its programs on any level. Since Head Starts inception in 1972 it has never discriminated in hiring for faith based and other organizations. There is no need to start now.
I was pleased the House did not adopt an amendment offered by Ms. MUSGRAVE that would allow for-profit Head Start providers to collect federal funds as profit. While for-profit Head Start grantees play an important role in school readiness, I do not support allowing them to collect a profit from federal grants provided to serve low-income students. Any savings from funds designated for administrative costs should go towards serving the needs of these low-income students. This amendment provides the wrong type of incentive for Head Start grantees.
While this bill is not perfect, there are many provisions that will provide needed and worthwhile reforms to Head Start. Head Start has proven to be a successful program and this bill will largely make it even more successful and efficient. So Mr. Chairman, I am voting in favor of this bill.
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