Summary

At the Prenatal-to-Three County Leaders Academy event in Decatur, Ga., Executive Constantine spoke about King County’s Prenatal to Three investments like child care and other early childhood programs, including the child care components of the voter approved 2021 Best Starts for Kids levy.

Story

King County Executive Dow Constantine shared some of the successes and lessons learned through Best Starts for Kids, the nation’s most comprehensive early-childhood investment programs, this week at a National Association of County Officials conference in Decatur, Ga.

Speaking at the Prenatal-to-Three County Leaders Academy, Executive Constantine joined a panel to discuss how to ensure equitable recovery for child care in the post-COVID era. The invite-only convening brought together 22 county government leaders and experts from across the nation who are leading with innovative and bold approaches to investments and supports for young children and families, from pregnancy through young adulthood. With voters approving the renewal of Best Starts for Kids in August, the six-year levy includes more than 3,000 new affordable slots for child care, helping ensure more women and families can return to the work force after having children.

The convening focused on sharing successes, understanding sustainable models for investment, and sharing how counties are utilizing and leveraging federal COVID-19 relief funds to support infants, toddlers, and families. Experts and staff briefed the cohort on the potential prenatal to three investments in the Build Back Better Act and encouraged leaders to continue their bold contributions to bolstering human infrastructure through county government. 

“When we promote healthy growth for all children, prevent the things that may cause them to stumble, and intervene early when kids and families need support, we set young people on a course for lifelong success,” said Executive Constantine. “The strength in our King County community is shown in the way we’ve moved through the crises of the past year together—and it will be foundational to our success in the months and years ahead.”

Quotes

When we promote healthy growth for all children, prevent the things that may cause them to stumble, and intervene early when kids and families need support, we set young people on a course for lifelong success. The strength in our King County community is shown in the way we’ve moved through the crises of the past year together—and it will be foundational to our success in the months and years ahead.

For more information, contact:

Chase Gallagher, Executive Office, 206-263-8537