Jill Bomberger spoke at Governor Pillen’s proclamation ceremony recognizing Head Start’s 60 anniversary and designating October as Head Start Awareness Month
Jill Bomberger
I remember one neighbor who said, “Head Start saved my life.” She came to Head Start during a crisis, in need of child care and support. Within our program, her children found a safe place to learn, and she found the space to rebuild—to finish school, get a job and provide for her family. Today, she’s thriving and helping others do the same. Her children love school—where they excel.
For the past 60 years, Nebraska’s Head Start programs have delivered these lasting benefits for children, families and communities.
Tailored to communities’ needs
I’m grateful to celebrate Head Start’s 60th anniversary and Head Start Awareness Month. Thank you, Governor Pillen, for recognizing how important this work is. Thank you, also, to each of the elected officials who recognize the impact and importance of this work. Nebraska’s Head Start programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of local communities, and your support is essential.
Head Start prepares children and their families to succeed in school and life, provides prenatal support and affordable child care so parents can focus on their education and careers, and catalyzes growth in rural, urban and suburban communities throughout Nebraska. Last year, Nebraska Head Start programs served 5,527 children and pregnant women across our state.
Sets children, families up for success
Head Start’s proven model sets up children and their families for success through four major components: education, health, parent engagement and local design. Research shows that high-quality early childhood programs, like Head Start, show an annual Return on Investment of more than 13%. Children who attended Head Start are more likely to graduate from high school and earn higher incomes and are less likely to be arrested, enter foster care and experience poor health. The Nebraska Head Start Association is proud to celebrate 60 years of this impactful work.
Thank you to our elected officials, early childhood providers and partners like First Five Nebraska who attended the proclamation ceremony. Your support helps make sure every child gets the strong start they deserve. Thank you again, Governor Pillen, for this recognition, and for standing with us.
