The Strong Start for America’s Children Act of 2013 made an important step forward today. The bill, supported by NAESP, was passed by the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee.

NAESP applauds the committee’s approval of this legislation, which would invest in high-quality prekindergarten programs, especially impacting low-income families. Strong early learning, as principals know, sets the stage for students’ achievement for the duration of their academic careers. At-risk and low-income children begin their formal education behind their peers, but excellent pre-K offers them a chance to gain more equal footing. This bill has the potential to dramatically improve the lives of children across the country, which underscores the vital need for Congress to pass it.

The measure now goes to the full U.S. Senate for consideration. The companion bill in the U.S. House of Representatives was introduced in November, 2013, garnering 131 cosponsors. NAESP urges both the Senate and the House to pass this important legislation.