New money for early childhood education

Gov. Malloy renewed his commitment to early childhood education by asking the legislature to approve $4 million in spending for 500 new preschool slots, and $3 million to support professional development.

In addition, he's asking to borrow $5 million to create a statewide Tiered Quality Rating and Improvement System that will allow parents to assess programs before enrolling their children. The lack of such a system was cited as a weakness in Connecticut’s recent “Race to the Top” application.

Last year the General Assembly passed legislation creating a more coordinated system of care and education.

Malloy also signed an executive order creating an Office of Early Childhood Education inside the Office of Policy and Management.

“Early childhood education is crucial to building a solid foundation for young children in Connecticut,” said Sharon Palmer, president of AFT Connecticut.

Malloy has promised to create 1,000 new preschool slots by the end of 2013.