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Now that HB 130 has passed the Texas Legislature, it must clear Governor Perry’s desk before it becomes law. The Governor has until June 21, 2009 to veto or sign a bill into law. It is important that we act now to get the message to the Governor that high-quality pre-k is important to Texans.

Only an organized and loud message to Governor can ensure that HB 130 successfully passes the Governor’s desk. Please take a few moments to send him a message today!

Sample Letter for Campaign

Subject: Please Sign HB 130

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

As a Texan and supporter of high-quality early education, I want you to know that I support HB 130 and would like you to sign the bill into law as soon as possible.

HB 130, relating to an enhanced quality full-day prekindergarten program provided by public school districts in conjunction with community providers, was recently passed by the Senate, 26-5. In the House, the bill set a record with 100 joint-authors and co-authors. HB 130 is truly a product of bi-partisanship, compromise, and cooperation. Texans from all over the state support high-quality pre-k because they know how important early learning is for young children. They also know that HB 130 represents a fiscally wise decision for our state.

Texas specific research conducted by the Texas A&M School of Government and Public Service proves that we make an incredibly sound investment when we support high-quality pre-k. The research found that for every $1.00 invested in high-quality pre-k, at least $3.50 is returned to Texas communities. Savings for taxpayers are realized long-term because children who experience high-quality pre-k have higher rates of high-school graduation, higher earning power as adults, fewer referrals to special education, and significantly less involvement with the criminal justice system.

Strong majorities of both Democrats and Republicans have thrown their support behind high-quality full-day pre-k. Governor Perry, please affirm this bi-partisan effort to strengthen the reach of Texas tax dollars while enhancing the education of our youngest learners by signing HB 130 into law.

Thank you for your service to Texas, and I hope that I can count on your support for this important legislation.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
May 28, 2009

Background Information

Research shows that compared with half-day pre-k, full-day quality programs are a significant factor in closing the educational achievement gap.
Full-day pre-k programs allow working parents who need full-day care increased flexibility and ensures safety and quality learning throughout the day for young children.

Texas currently has no requirements regarding pre-k class size or child-to-staff ratio, two indicators of early education program quality.

An integrated approach to early care and education that includes community-based partnerships with child care and Head Start programs allows school districts to save tax dollars by partnering with existing facilities rather than building new facilities or purchasing temporary buildings.

Recent changes in the Pre-k Expansion Grant Program (now called the Early Start Grant Program), which supports many districts in the voluntary expansion of their pre-k day may result in the loss of many full-day programs currently operating throughout the state. Senate Bill 21 and House Bill 130, can ensure that many of these districts do not have to discontinue their full-day programs.