Local pre-K teacher hosts site visit for state representative

State Rep. Donnie Brown, center, visited the prekindergarten classroom to read to children and tour the facility in October at Warren Hearnes Elementary in Charleston. (Submitted Photo)

CHARLESTON, Mo. – Warren E. Hearnes Elementary’s prekindergarten program hosted state representative Donnie Brown.

The visit included Brown reading to the pre-K class, a tour of the pre-K classrooms led by Pre-K teacher, Amanda Cain, a Kids Win Missouri Early Care and Education Fellow and conversation about the realities of the early care and education system. 

Brown had the opportunity to see different activities in each classroom, speak to the teachers and get a better understanding of the direct impact that policy has on the providers, educators and families.

“We really appreciate the opportunity to bring our state leaders to our school and show them the amazing things we do every day. We work hard every day to serve the children and families who come to us and make sure their children are supported and ready for kindergarten,” Cain said.

The goal of these visits is to encourage legislators to prioritize early childhood education in Jefferson City during legislative session. Child care and early education have been a priority for Gov. Mike Parson and the legislature, but there still remains a lack of affordable, high quality child care and early education for children throughout the state.

“The legislative site visits are a great opportunity for child care providers and teachers to share their joys and challenges. The legislators have an opportunity to see firsthand how recent investments in child care and early education are impacting ECE programs in their district while also learning how continued investments are crucial to the success of our youngest learners, their families, and our communities,” said Robyn Schelp, Director of Policy & Advocacy, Kids Win Missouri.

— Submitted by Casey Hanson