The research on early learning is clear: All Delawareans reap short- and long-term benefits when our youngest citizens receive a high-quality early education. Early childhood development is economic development. Children who participate in an early childhood education program are more likely to graduate from high school, attend college or job training, and have higher earnings.

In addition to supporting the Vision Coalition, which recommends greater investment in early learners, Rodel also worked with public, private, and civic leaders to generate additional state investments and create a winning  Race to the Top – Early Learning Challenge application, which infused the system with $49 million. We supported the creation of the  Office of Early Learning, which leads the state’s early childhood efforts, and we continue to support the Delaware Readiness Teams; and we are a founding member of the First State Pre-K coalition.