‘Early Childhood Education Matters,’ Little Rock Mayor Tells UAMS Head Start Team
| Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. praised educators and staff members from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Head Start/Early Head Start program as they kicked off their 2024-25 school year with a weeklong training session.
About 130 employees took part in the session at the Four Points by Sheraton hotel in Little Rock, said Tyra Larkin, director of UAMS Head Start/Early Head Start. The week included training and team-building activities intended to raise the team’s excitement for the coming year.
“We found out during the pandemic how badly the field of early childhood education is needed, but unfortunately, a lot of people have left the profession,” she said. “We’re trying to get folks reengaged and make sure they understand the importance of their role in children’s development.”
Scott emphasized that importance during his address, describing how healthy development in a child’s early years can provide the foundation for educational achievement, economic productivity and stronger communities.
“I’m here today to discuss how early childhood education truly matters,” he said. “It matters because it helps each of our children to be better than their beginning. You all are taking on a God-given purpose to change the trajectory and direction of their lives.”
Scott said studies have shown that students who are unable to read proficiently by third grade are more likely to struggle throughout their academic journey.
“We know that education and economic development are inextricably linked,” he said. “You can’t have more jobs if you don’t have an educated workforce, and that’s why we have to focus on helping children from cradle to career.”
Scott praised the educators for persevering even when the work is challenging, noting that their efforts can help children reach their full potential and become mayors, scientists, entrepreneurs or innovators.
“You are transforming this state and this city each and every day that you decide to come to work and show love, empathy and discipline to our youths,” he said.
UAMS Head Start/Early Head Start provides quality early childhood education services for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years with no out-of-pocket fees for qualifying families. UAMS operates six Head Start/Early Head Start centers in Pulaski County.