I appreciated reading the recent guest column by retired Maj. Gen. Earl Adams discussing how important high-quality early education is for our national security. I would like to add to the public discussion that early learning is also good for Maine’s future workers and our economy.

According to a report by the national business leader organization ReadyNation, a well-respected, independent cost-benefit analysis of more than 20 different studies of high-quality state and local preschool programs, shows that such programs can have, on average, a net return of more than $26,000 in current dollars for every child served. Cost saving come from reducing crime, grade repetition and the need for special education, and increasing high school graduation rates and future earnings.

Clearly, early education is a sound financial investment, and it’s the right thing to do to help future generations of Maine children start school ready to learn, stay on track, graduate from high school and be much more likely to be productive workers.

I join Adams in encouraging the governor and legislators to work together to find funding to continue to expand Maine public pre-K so more children can start out on the path toward school and life success.

Kevin Healey

Senior vice president

Kennebec Savings Bank

Augusta


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