Step Forward President and CEO Dr. Jacklyn Chisholm along with members of the Step Forward leadership team, welcomed the United States Congressman from Ohio’s 13th district and Senate Candidate Tim Ryan to the William Patrick Day Early Learning Center.
Congressman Ryan, joined by his wife Andrea Ryan, a first-grade teacher, and their son, toured William Patrick Day while discussing the needs and concerns of both Head Start staff and the families they serve. During their visit, Congressman Ryan and his family also led story time by reading Pete the Cat to Early Head Start students and joining a sing-along before continuing on their tour.
For many parents here in Cuyahoga County and across the U.S, access to high-quality childcare and education is a top priority. Throughout his career, Congressman Ryan has worked to address issues facing northeast Ohioans and aims to continue this work while investing in education if elected to the Senate. “We want these kids today to be the workers of the future and if we don’t make these investments now that won’t happen,” said Congressman Ryan.
This investment in young students was also emphasized by Step Forward VP of Children and Families Dr. Thea Wilson during a recent radio interview with Ideastream Public Media. Dr. Wilson stressed the importance of programs that hold early learning and childcare centers accountable to ensure children and families receive high-quality services.
Step Forward Head Start serving ages 3 – 5 and Early Head Start serving pregnant women and children from birth – age 3, is enrolling for the 2021-2022 school year. You can learn more and enroll your child here.