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Spitzer Urged to Focus on Childcare

By Mark Scott

Albany, NY – Early childhood advocates called on Governor-Elect Eliot Spitzer Tuesday to create a new state commission that would coordinate and oversee various state programs for children under age five.

A coalition that calls itself Winning Beginning New York is proposing an Early Learning Commission.

Karen Schimke, president of the Schuyler Center for Analysis and Advocacy, is one of the advocates behind the effort. Schimke said the commission would be able to reach across the boundaries of various state agencies that are now responsible for early childhood programs.

Indeed, Schimke said there are often duplicative and conflicting regulations. She says an Early Learning Commission would is key to making the most of every dollar invested in early childhood programs.

Schimke said she and other advocates believe Spitzer will be sympathetic...

Schimke, who once served as Erie County Social Services Commissioner, said early childhood education provides the foundation for a child's future academic success.

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