Governor Unveils Early Childhood Action Strategy

File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

Governor Neil Abercrombie joined Terry Lock, the director of the Executive Office on Early Learning today in unveiling the state’s early childhood action strategy.

The plan focuses on improving health, development, family support and readiness and for young kids with goals for outcomes for learning proficiency by the third grade.

The report, “Taking Action for Hawaii’s Children,” focuses on improving outcomes of Hawaii’s youngest children, prenatal to age eight.

“We have a clear vision of providing our children with a safe, healthy, and successful start in life,” said Gov. Abercrombie. “The action strategy prioritizes the benefits of early childhood development by recommending key partnerships and identifying desired outcomes to prepare our keiki for success.”

The action strategy outlines six main goals an was inspired by a national research-based framework that also considers the unique cultures and diversity throughout the state.

“This action strategy is intentionally outcomes-driven, and will help to create conditions of well-being for families and children so our young ones can meet their full potential,” said EOEL Director Lock.

State officials say a critical component of the plan is to engage and support families, so they can be supportive of their young children. Relationships between families, practitioners, and providers have been identified as key elements in implementing the program.

***Supporting information courtesy, Office of the Governor, State of Hawai’i.