Cuts to preschool funding should be restored

Over the last three years, state lawmakers have cut Illinois’ early childhood education program, Preschool for All, by 15 percent. Tens of thousands of 3- and 4-year-olds have lost the opportunity to attend a quality preschool. Grundy County lost 60 slots last year.

As a citizen, I think it’s tragic that tough budget decisions have consistently turned out to shortchange opportunities for young children. As a sheriff, I’m worried that this will make law enforcement’s job much more difficult down the road.

Multiple, rigorous studies have found that at-risk children who don’t get a high-quality early childhood education are less likely to graduate from high school and more likely to be arrested as teenagers and young adults.

Fighting crime doesn’t start with arrests; it starts with ensuring children are equipped with the skills they need to succeed in school and life.

Last fall, I was able to visit a Minooka CCSD 201 preschool class. The Minooka school district is Grundy County’s only remaining recipient of state funding for preschool. Many of these very young children travel long distances to attend, and there is a lengthy waiting list to get in.

For too many parents, that means their children won’t have the benefit of a high-quality early childhood education.

The Governor and General Assembly are starting to develop the budget for FY 2013. Governor Quinn has indicated that he would like to see a portion of the cuts to preschool restored in this budget.

I know law enforcement leaders across the state will be relieved if the General Assembly takes his suggestion and restores last year’s cut to Preschool for All. The future of our children and safety of our communities depends on it.