When I talk to young families across the district, they often speak about the high cost of childcare. So many parents are working full time jobs to pay the bills and have no other option but to place their kids in childcare. However existing programs are expensive and take up an unreasonable portion of the family budget (on average $12,000 per year, per child). That’s why if elected, one of my top priorities at the State House will be fighting to pass a universal Pre-K education program.

Research shows that early education programs not only remove financial stress, but with high standards they raise high-school graduation rates and increase the odds a child completes college. They also reduce crime and teen pregnancy. What’s more, even conservative estimates show that every dollar spent returns at least $3 in increased earnings and savings on food, housing, and other programs.

At a low cost, we can set every child and family up for success.

Laufton Ascencao
Bristol
Democratic candidate for House of Representatives, District 68