Sen. Dodd: Gov’s Master Plan Advances Early Learning

NAPA – Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, issued the following statement today in response to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s unveiling of his Master Plan for Early Learning and Care: California for All Kids, which helps families dealing with additional childcare demands of the COVID-19 pandemic while incorporating Sen. Dodd’s ideas on transitional kindergarten and other improvements for early childhood education.

“Especially in light of the coronavirus pandemic, is critical that California achieve universal preschool and expand early childhood education,” Sen. Dodd said. “I have advocated these important goals throughout my time in office and I applaud Gov. Newsom for giving them a boost at this key time. I look forward to working with my legislative colleagues to implement provisions of this inspired master plan.”

“This investment will pay off in increased graduation rates and lifetime earning potential,” Sen. Dodd said.

Gov. Newsom’s 10-year proposal builds on more than $500 million in federal funds to increase access to childcare vouchers, waive family fees and support the childcare workforce with personal protective equipment. It includes recommendations to expand access to paid family leave, provide universal preschool for all 4-year-olds and eligible 3-year-olds, while prohibiting suspensions in subsidized learning programs.

Sen. Dodd has been a champion of universal transitional kindergarten, which has proven to improve learning and educational outcomes. In 2018, he authored Senate Bill 837, calling for transitional kindergarten for all 4-year-olds. Earlier this year, he co-authored Assembly Bill 2500 with Assembly member Kevin McCarty, D-Sacramento, which would have expanded access to early childhood education. Legislators are expected to put forward proposals as early as Monday.

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Senator Bill Dodd represents California’s 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Solano, Napa, Sonoma, Yolo, Sacramento, and Contra Costa counties. You can learn more about Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.