Invest in ECEAP

As our state legislators craft a biennial budget, I urge them to recognize the importance of early learning by investing in the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) and Working Connections Child Care (WCCC). While much of the budget focus this year has been on the critical need to address the McCleary court decision that requires increased investment in K-12 education, we can’t lose sight of the importance of the entire education continuum, including early learning.

By age five, a child’s brain is almost completely developed – yet too many kids in Washington do not have access to high-quality early learning. By investing in the earliest years we help prepare children for success in school, meaning that children are ready to learn and thrive in their K-12 education.

Without ECEAP, my daughter would not get the early education that she needs to prepare her for her education in K-12. ECEAP has taught my daughter everything from basic social skills to how to write her name and numbers. Our family is so thankful for this program, without it, we would not be able to afford to send her to preschool, and she would miss out on the learning opportunities that she truly needs.

Please give Washington’s children the strong start in life they need by increasing investment in early learning.

Jacquie Bigelow

Spokane