Original Source | The Oregonian
By Swati Adarkar, Friday August 14, 2009

Head start in race to top
Rep. Arnie Roblan got it right in his guest opinion about the federal "Race to the Top" education initiative ("Oregon students win in a 'Race to the Top,' " Aug. 12).

"Race to the Top" is a prime opportunity for Oregon to ensure that every child enters kindergarten ready to learn and is prepared for success in school and beyond. As Oregon positions itself to compete for funds intended to bolster K-12 outcomes, state leaders and community stakeholders should not overlook the importance of investing in early education.

High-quality early education programs have been shown time and again to be the most cost-effective means of closing the academic achievement gap, which we know is often evident before children enter kindergarten.

SWATI ADARKAR
Executive Director, Children's Institute
Southwest Portland