Governor Doyle Announces $7.9 Million for Major Expansion of Early Head Start Programs

MADISON – Governor Jim Doyle announced Wednesday that nine Wisconsin Early Head Start Programs will receive $7.9 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to enroll hundreds of Wisconsin children in Early Head Start programs.

"I am very excited about the opportunities these new resources will create. Early Head Start programs are central to our efforts to support families and help children thrive,” Governor Doyle said in making the announcement. "These programs unlock the potential in young children, giving them the opportunity to grow and shine at an early age."

Early Head Start programs provide comprehensive early childhood education services to promote healthy prenatal outcomes, enhance the development of infants and toddlers, and promote healthy families across the state. The increased funding will improve the health and development of hundreds of Wisconsin 's youngest children. Studies show that a child's earliest years are extremely important to how they will grow and develop throughout their childhood.

The grants cover funding from December 2009 until September 29, 2011, and include funding to launch new Early Head Start Programs in Waukesha , Milwaukee , Wood County and Stevens Point , and to expand existing Early Head Start programs elsewhere.

Governor Doyle has been a strong supporter of early childhood development. In addition to supporting Wisconsin ’s expansion in Early Head Start, the Governor has expanded 4-year-old kindergarten statewide, increased funding to lower class sizes in the early grades, and expanded school breakfast programs. Through BadgerCare Plus, the Governor has also worked to provide health care coverage to every child in Wisconsin.