The problem is were still not reaching enough kids, and were not reaching them in time, and that has to change. Research shows that one of the best investments we can make in a childs life is high-quality early education. (Applause.) Last year, I asked this Congress to help states make high-quality pre-K available to every 4-year-old. And as a parent as well as a president, I repeat that request tonight. But in the meantime, 30 states have raised pre-k funding on their own. They know we cant wait. So just as we worked with states to reform our schools, this year well invest in new partnerships with states and communities across the country in a race to the top for our youngest children. And as Congress decides what its going to do, Im going to pull together a coalition of elected officials, business leaders, and philanthropists willing to help more kids access the high-quality pre-K that they need. (Applause.) It is right for America. We need to get this done.
Posted on: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 13:41:26 +0000