August 9, 2005
Early Learning Seminar to Highlight Advances in Neuroscience, Economics and State Policy
Lawmakers in 36 states considered early learning legislation in 2005
SEATTLE – A half-day seminar on early learning next week will enable scientists, researchers, policy experts and state leaders to present their views and latest findings. The child care and early education project of the National Conference of State Legislatures presents “Breakthroughs in Early Learning: Advances in Science, Economics, and State Policy,” in Seattle on August 16, 2005. Sponsored by the Pew Center on the States, the Buffett Early Childhood Fund and the Talaris Research Institute, the seminar seeks to deepen a dialogue that has already begun in almost three quarters of the states. Lawmakers in 36 states considered early learning legislation in 2005.
“Early childhood education has gained momentum as policymakers and business and community leaders work together to improve opportunities for our children,” said Washington Representative Ruth Kagi, who is chairing the planning team for the event and is a member of NCSL’s Human Services & Welfare Committee. “New technology has allowed scientists to better understand brain development. Researchers have found strong evidence that kids who attend preschool have greater success in school, are less likely to drop out of high school or commit crimes later in life. And economists have tied this to savings for society in the long run.”
Policymakers are drawing on this knowledge to make strategic investments in preschool, quality child care and supports for very young children and their parents, Kagi added.
This seminar will cover neuroscientific research, economic analyses, child outcome data, and examples of state policies.
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WHAT: |
“Breakthroughs in Early Learning: Advances in Science, Economics and State Policy,” a seminar presented by the National Conference of State Legislatures and sponsored by the Pew Center on the States |
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WHEN: |
Tuesday, Aug. 16 from 12-5 p.m. |
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WHERE: |
The Washington State Convention & Trade Center in Seattle, Room 608/609 |
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WHO: |
Speakers include:
- W. Steven Barnett, Ph.D., director, National Institute for Early Education Research;
- Representative Leroy Dangeau, Arkansas
- Libby Doggett, PH.D, Executive Director, Prek Now
- Representative Roger Eddy, Illinois
- Representative Ruth Kagi, Washington
- Patricia K. Kuhl, Ph.D. and Andrew N. Meltzoff, Ph.D., co-directors, University of Washington’s Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences;
- Joan Lombardi, Ph.D., director, The Children's Project
- Arthur J. Rolnick, Ph.D., senior vice president and director of research, Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis; and
- Jack P. Shonkoff, M.D., chair, National Scientific Council on the Developing Child.
- Sara Watson, Program Officer, The Pew Charitable Trusts
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This conference is a precursor to NCSL’s “Strong States, Strong Nation” Annual Meeting, which will take place at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center in Seattle August 16-20. That meeting is expected to draw more than 7,000 state legislators, legislative staff, experts, advocates and journalists to its 150 informative policy sessions. Many will deal with education topics, including increasing Latino student success, creating extraordinary high schools, assessing disabled student learning, examining No Child Left Behind, and funding higher education. For more information, go to www.ncsl.org/programs/press/2005/home.htm. NCSL’s Annual Meeting is free to credentialed members of the media, but registration is required. Forms are online.
NCSL is the bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the states, commonwealth's and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system.
The Pew Charitable Trusts serves the public interest by providing information, advancing policy solutions and supporting civic life. Based in Philadelphia, with an office in Washington, D.C., the Trusts will invest $204 million in fiscal year 2006 to provide organizations and citizens with fact-based research and practical solutions for challenging issues. More information about the Trusts can be found at www.pewtrusts.org.
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