HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0757.006 2022-2024 P /CRAG
GOMM.--m
Date: March 16, 2024
To: Communications, Reports and Council Oversight Committee
Hawaii County Council i„.AV
r
RE: Testimony in Support of Early Childhood Resources Program within the co =' -4:
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Department of Research and Development
My name is Susan Maddox and I serve as Executive Team Leader for Friends of the Future,
a 501c3 nonprofit organization based in Waimea.
Systems change is daunting. It requires resources, expertise and a commitment for the long
term. The County's investment is critical to the success of the Early Childhood Resources
Team. Now is the time to step forward to leverage every dollar to better serve the needs of
our families and children.
I was involved with both the April Symposium and the December Early Childhood
Conference and heard first-hand the many positive comments of those who attended. Early
childhood educators are often the ones who set children on a solid path to a love of
learning and academic achievement. Each event's program provided attendees with the
latest information on both island, state and national trends...right here on this island.
The ARPA funding designated by the County is one of the first signs of implementing a truly
sustainable, effective and financially responsible system to serve Hawaii Island children
and families. It encompasses educators' professional development, childcare, early learning
and literacy and family support resources and it deserves to reach its full potential.
Comm. o h • lX
Ref. To: 011111
) e MAR 1 9 2024