The vital need for better early education
In his proposed budget, Gov. Tim Walz said he is "committed to making Minnesota the 'Education State'" and laid out what he called a historic investment. Early education is part of that plan. Walz warns that current pre-kindergarten spots could be drastically cut without a $59 million appropriation.
But is maintaining the status quo in early education services enough?
Last month, MPR hosted a panel discussion on the needs of the very youngest Minnesotans — ages 0 to 3 — and how the quality of care we receive from our first days lays the groundwork for future academic success.
The panelists:
Create a More Connected Minnesota
MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.
Rachel Giannini— An early childhood advocate and former preschool teacher
Dr. Gigi Chawla— A pediatrician and chief of general pediatrics at Children's Minnesota
Luz Maria Frias— President and chief executive officer of YWCA Minneapolis
Eric Jolly— president and chief executive officer of the Saint Paul and Minnesota Foundations
To listen to the full conversation you can use the audio player above.