Welcome to the Rising Stars of Massachusetts 2013!

A Bright Start for Children Means a Bright Future for Massachusetts
On January 23, Governor Patrick proposed $131 million in new investments in high-quality early education to help close the achievement gap, as part of his fiscal year 2014 budget recommendation. This proposal builds on the strong foundation the state has laid in recent years through the establishment of quality standards, strengthened training and professional development of the early education workforce, and a commitment to family engagement.

This is the first step in the state budget process. Now, state legislators are drafting their budget recommendations for FY14. We have an incredible opportunity to put young children at the top of the agenda.

Research has never been clearer about the benefits and cost-effectiveness of high-quality early education. Yet state investments in early education have decreased by more than $80 million since FY09. Children across the commonwealth, our “rising stars,” are counting on everyone—educators, parents, advocates, neighbors, grandparents, administrators, students and citizens—to speak up on their behalf. Your state legislators need to hear from you.

Please join Rising Stars 2013!
	Decorating stars: Invite young children in your early education program/family/neighborhood to decorate stars to represent them. Download the star template. Please cut out the stars. On the back of the decorated stars, attach one of our messages about the importance of investing in our rising stars. Include the child’s name, name of your program (if applicable), and the city/town on the message sheet.
	For children in grades K-3: Help children fill out their very own K-3rd Rising Star to send to state legislators! Make sure to complete both sides.
	Future early educators: Send a message to your legislators asking them to prioritize young children and the early education workforce by personalizing this letter.
	General supporters of young children: Personalize this letter to your legislators on behalf of young children and families in Massachusetts. In the section labeled, “your role,” you may choose from one of the following or include another that fits you best: parent, voter, resident, professional educator, voter, administrator, grandparent, concerned citizen, etc. If you do not know your legislators, find out here, or leave blank and we can fill it in!.

Let us know who participated!
Return your participation form with completed letters and decorated stars to:

Emily Levine
Strategies for Children/Early Education for All
400 Atlantic Avenue
Boston, MA 02110

For more information about Rising Stars of Massachusetts 2013, please contact Emily Levine, EEA Research and Field Associate, at 617-330-7389.