Today, at least one in six Americans is living in poverty, including more than 25 percent of children under age 6. Right here in Alaska, nearly 18 percent of children under age 6 -- more than 11,000 children -- are living below the poverty line.
In light of the devastating reality of poverty so many among us are facing, it feels almost shameful to express thanks for our bounty during this Thanksgiving season. As the of executive director of CCS Early Learning, an Alaskan Head Start Program, I see every day how these tough economic times are pushing more and more overstretched families out of jobs and into poverty.
I also witness how access to early childhood education programs can transform lives.
The first five years of life represent a critical period of growth and development. It is a time when walking, talking, self-esteem, character, and moral foundations are established. By age 5, children's patterns for learning, interacting with others, and understanding their world are set. Quality early childhood education programs like Head Start and Early Head Start centers across Alaska, harness the possibilities during this window of opportunity by approaching young minds with a comprehensive range of tools designed to foster strong social, emotional and physical growth.
When children are given the benefit of early childhood education, risk factors can be identified and addressed early, stronger communities forged, and positive early life experiences created so students enter school eager and ready to learn.
Without exception, the children in our program exhibit increased independence, improvement in language and communication skills, more self-confidence, and improved relationships with other children.
So, while many of our families are struggling to make ends meet, pay the car note, and keep food on the table, the smiling, giggling, rambunctious children our parents bring to the center every day fill me with joy and gratitude.
I am profoundly thankful for Head Start's national commitment that serves as a lifeline to 3,370 of Alaska's poorest children.
I am thankful we can offer our neediest children a range of educational, health and nutrition services. I am thankful our parents have the fortitude to keep pushing through adversity while keeping their eye on the prize - the success of their children. I am thankful our community continues to invest in vulnerable children and families by partnering with us to provide life-altering programs. I am thankful to the staff and volunteers who wake up each day thinking about how best to serve these children and go to sleep doing the same.
I am thankful we are removing barriers to success so these children are engaged, energized and fully prepared for Kindergarten. Perhaps most of all,
I am thankful for the opportunity to be a small part of keeping the Head Start window of opportunity open so these children can access endless possibilities and embark on an adventure-filled journey to lifelong success.
Mark Lackey is executive director of CCS Early Learning, an Alaska Head Start program.
By MARK LACKEY