Bill to improve federal Head Start program now headed to president

WASHINGTON – The final version of the Improving Head Start Act of 2007 (H.R. 1429), which received final approval by both houses of Congress today, includes provisions authored by Congressman Vernon J. Ehlers.

The measures call for teachers in Head Start programs to be trained in early math and science curriculum. They also require Head Start programs to ensure children show math and science knowledge and skills.

The federal Head Start program currently provides disadvantaged children with critical health, educational and social skills before they enter kindergarten. “The measures I fought to include in this bill will help prepare students with math and science skills so that they are ready for kindergarten and first grade learning in those subjects,” said Congressman Ehlers.

“I am pleased that my math and science provisions were included. They will help strengthen this successful program and ensure students are ready to learn the basic concepts of math and science when they enter kindergarten,” added Ehlers.

The bill now heads to President Bush, where it may be signed into law.