John Kitzhaber visited two of Early Learning Multnomah’s Preschool Promise sites on Monday, October 30. It was a proud “homecoming” for the former Governor who championed early childhood education and sparked the creation of Early Learning Hubs like Early Learning Multnomah (ELM) during his tenure in office.
“I can’t think of a better way to start a week than spending time with young learners. I have been smiling ever since,” Kitzhaber said of his visit.
Kitzhaber toured two Preschool Promise classrooms in David Douglas School District, one that serves Burmese families and one that serves Somali families. Both sites offer more than just a preschool classroom. They also help connect families to health, housing, and other resources. It’s all part of a two-generational approach to early learning that supports both the adults and children in the family, so the whole family can be more successful.
“It is during these early childhood years that the strongest foundations for success are built and where we get the greatest return on our investment for children and families,” said Kitzhaber. “This is an inspirational program that helps ensure that all of our children have the tools, support and nurturing they need to thrive. My thanks to Early Learning Multnomah, Mt. Hood Community College Head Start and the CAIRO Academy for allowing me to visit, and to the teachers, staff, parents—and especially to the young learners—in this wonderful program.”
Thank you for taking the time to visit with our Preschool Promise teachers and students, former Governor Kitzhaber!