Washington — Neera Tanden, President of the Center for American Progress, issued the statement below following New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio’s (D) announcement that he will expand free, full-day preschool for every 3-year-old in New York City.
“Mayor de Blasio’s announcement is great news for families across New York City, helping tackle inequality and level the playing field for children, no matter what neighborhood they grow up in. Study after study repeatedly shows that investing in high-quality child care and education between ages 0 and 5 has a lasting impact on an individual’s ability to learn and thrive. Mayor de Blasio’s plan will not only help New York City’s families make the most of this critical moment in their children’s development, but also save them thousands of dollars and give them greater workplace flexibility.
“Cities and states across the country should take note of New York City’s progressive and critical investment in our future’s most valuable asset: our children.”