mr. chairman , for almost 40 years , head start has assisted low-income preschool children and their families .  it has been an invaluable resource to many children and families across our country .  i am pleased to rise to join with my colleagues about the future of head start .  as congressman and a former county executive , education is one of my top priorities .  in particular , head start programs are essential to so many children 's futures , for research shows that early learning is a fundamental piece of a child 's education .  i have long held a firm belief in the importance of education and have often spoke of our nation 's need to ensure that , even at the earliest stages our children have access to programs and services that will enrich their education and lives .  last year , head start helped 912 , 000 three , four , and five year olds build a solid foundation so they are ready to tackle reading and math in kindergarten .  head start allows children to be ready to succeed in school and in life .  giving them that extra boost that they need will allow them to be productive citizens .  head start also provides the youngsters and their families with a comprehensive list of support services -- from health screenings to nutritional advice to parent counseling .  i stand behind this program because i have seen first hand how head start helps the entire family grow and succeed together .  head start is a good start for america 's future .  