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ELECTION 2024

CANDIDATE RESPONSES

EVENTS

FIND YOUR POLLING PLACE

ABOUT THE ACTION FUND

Pennsylvania’s children are in trouble. Across the state nearly a half million children face the same troubling circumstances.

We know that good health care, education and enrichment treat the wounds to a child’s development caused by poverty.

Research tells us that ensuring the safety and nurturing the intellect, creativity, and self-confidence of children raised in poverty, is difficult and requires extra resources and efforts to succeed.

In Pennsylvania, these children suffer because lawmakers fail to invest sufficient resources or support the specific policies to meet their needs.

Tens of thousands of children are uninsured, alarmingly growing up without regular access to health care.

The vast majority of low income children attend schools that have far less resources available for their education than their well-off peers.

And far less than half of the at-risk young children in the Commonwealth have access to the benefits of high quality early learning programs that are proven to boost their educational and lifetime chances of success.

That’s why the Children First Action Fund exists.

Our goal is to ensure elected officials make the right investments of public resources so that children burdened by poverty and adversity have the best chance of reaching their full potential.

OUR  WORK

Children First Action Fund strategically works on both sides of the aisle, in a non-partisan fashion, to help lawmakers learn what it takes for children to succeed and persuade them to support our legislative measures.

We are singularly focused on increasing the number of elected officials who will champion investments and policies needed to ensure disadvantaged children are healthy, safe, learning in nurturing environments and engaged in the enrichment activities that, in sum, contribute to lifetime success.

Children First Action Fund employs three proven strategies to accomplish this goal:

  1. Deploying highly effective government affairs strategies to educate and persuade lawmakers to fight for the policies and resources we know are necessary.
  2. Publishing and disseminating information to citizens to enable them to judge how well lawmakers are delivering on the continuum of services and opportunities proven to help these children thrive from infancy to college graduation. 
  3. Engaging policy experts from our partner organization, Children First PA, to educate lawmakers and make the case for the legislation and policy changes we know will make a difference in the lives of children.

OUR BOARD

The Children First Action Fund is governed by a board of bi-partisan volunteers focused on raising funds to support lobbying efforts for improved access to high quality educational opportunities, especially for our poorest children and to let citizens know when their elected officials are making that possible, and when they are not. 

David Laigaie,

Action Fund Board Chair

Partner

Eckert Seamans

Emily Marks,

Action Fund Board Secretary

Partner

Kline & Specter 

Nancy Lucas,

Action Fund Board Treasurer

Retired CEO

Community Behavioral Health

Carolyn Adams

Professor of Geography & Urban Planning

Temple University

Harriet Dichter

Consultant

Early Childhood Systems

Bill Ewing

Attorney

Retired

Shanee Garner-Nelson

Founding Executive Director

Lift Every Voice Phillly

Amy Ginensky

Special Counsel

Pepper Hamilton

Linda Hansell

Independent Consultant

 

Brendan Harris

VP of Community HealthChoices

UPMC Health Plan 

Bill Isler

Former Executive Director

Fred Rogers Company

Sam Patterson

Founder

PK Financial Group

Kate Philips

CEO

Parker Philips, Inc.

Heidi A. Ramírez

Independent Education Consultant

Ebony Staton

Director

Johnson & Johnson

Nora Winkelman

Former Chief Counsel, Democratic Caucus

Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Melissa Young

Founder

Mash Strategies

Question 10


Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Amanda Cappelletti

"YES. While I have a child in care right now, I am in a privileged and fortunate position. I was able to access care with relative ease and I am able to pay out of pocket. I know that is not the case for everyone. I am fighting everyday to better support the workforce of the childcare industry and the families who need affordable high quality care."

Question 7

Should the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers be commensurate with those of other educators who work in k-12 schools and have similar qualifications?

Amanda Cappelletti

"YES. It is horrifying that there isn’t parity for childcare workers."

Question 5

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers?

Amanda Cappelletti

"YES. We are entrusting perhaps our vulnerable population with child care workers. Rightfully, we want and expect them to be well-educated in childhood development. However, it’s is beyond time that we put our money where mouth is. These individuals, not only deserve a living wage, but a sustainable system that demonstrates that we value them, their work, and the children and families that they serve. "

Question 10


Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Nikil Saval

"YES. I have two young children, one of whom is still in preschool, and I am incredibly grateful for the caregivers who nurtured them (and continue to be important friends in our lives). At the same time, caregivers work on a knife-edge, barely earning a living and struggling with a lack of support. And there is overall a deficit of high-quality childcare facilities. I would gladly share our stories and the stories of those close to us."

Question 10


Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Sean Steeg

"YES. More a "maybe": my eldest is an ECE child care professional in State College, and they may be interested in sharing a story (but I do not know for certain)."

Question 7

Should the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers be commensurate with those of other educators who work in k-12 schools and have similar qualifications?

Sean Steeg

"YES. Similarly, accountability should match K-12 educators as well."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Sean Steeg

"No. In lieu of direct state funds to facilities, I would like to increase wages for everyone, which would mean parents would be able to afford more things like adequate child care."

Question 5

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers?

Sean Steeg

"NO. In lieu of direct state funds to staff, I would like to increase wages for everyone, which would mean parents would be able to afford more things like adequate child care."

Question 3

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

Sean Steeg

"YES. If we push more funding earlier, I would ideally like to see a commensurate increase in licensing and accountability that is on par with K-12 education."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Meriam Sabih

"YES. One of my focuses on my campaign is increasing and protecting public school funding and expanding for pre k education."

Question 10


Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

David H. Zimmerman

"YES. Our community of moms, churches and businesses teamed up to form a cooperative. Private sector, not government is figuring out the solutions. Government needs to stop with the controls and over regulating and allow these private programs to operate and work."

Question 9


Will you advocate for increased access to services that connect youth and families to work? 

David H. Zimmerman

"No. This is beyond the scope of government responsibilities. Government may incentivise but not run the programs. This is government delving into the private sector realm."

Question 9


Will you advocate for increased access to services that connect youth and families to work? 

David H. Zimmerman

"No. This is beyond the scope of government responsibilities. Government may incentivise but not run the programs. This is government delving into the private sector realm."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

David H. Zimmerman

"No. Again let's have industry incentivise."

Question 5

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers?

David H. Zimmerman

"No. Allow the free market to drive this. Industry should use this as an incentive by offering assistance in this area."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Melissa Cerrato

"NO. My wife was amazing and took care of my kids and grandkids I was very fortunate and for those that dont have that advantage professional child care services is the only alternative."

Question 8

Will you support more state funds spent for home visiting programs that help new parents care for their babies?

Edwin Pashinski

"YES. Fairness and balance are key and I believe we should do everything we can to provide what is necessary for that child to become a productive adult."

Question 7

Should the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers be commensurate with those of other educators who work in k-12 schools and have similar qualifications?

Edwin Pashinski

"YES. As a Union teacher for almost 40 years it is imperative that we support our teachers and give them the tools to help prepare future generations."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Edwin Pashinski

"YES. I expect a fair financial assessment for the responsibility of taking care of children and i would support allocating state and federal dollars in order to provide that quality education. I do strongly believe in balance on all levels and fairness and will not tolerate price gouging of any kind."

Question 5

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers?

Edwin Pashinski

"YES. For too long wages have not reflected the changes in our economy."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers?

Edwin Pashinski

"YES. When a parent knows that their child is being properly taken care of its much easier to devote themselves to quality work at their jobs"

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Edwin Pashinski

"YES. Refer to my statement in question 2"

Question 2

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

Edwin Pashinski

"YES. The association with other children and adults at an early age stimulates a wide variety of emotions in children. Its the beginning steps of learning development. The more stimuli the children receive the better chances they have of success in the future."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Edwin Pashinski

"YES. These are some of the most important years in a child's life its an honor to fight for talented and caring staff to support their growth."

Question 10


Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Deb Adoff

"YES. I have many family members who struggle with child care. Quality care is expensive and hard to come by. The world would be a much better place if we could solve this issue."

Question 9


Will you advocate for increased access to services that connect youth and families to work? 

Deb Adoff

"YES. With the wages as they are, many families must work multiple jobs to survive. Any increased services that can connect home and work life would be quite advantageous."

Question 8

Will you support more state funds spent for home visiting programs that help new parents care for their babies?

Deb Adoff

"YES. I'm not sure how the funding would work for this. I received care at home for the first few days, then had to travel, but longer would have been wonderful."

Question 7

Should the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers be commensurate with those of other educators who work in k-12 schools and have similar qualifications?

Deb Adoff

"YES. And they all need to receive a living wage. These positions are too important let them slide into vacancy for lack of a decent wage."

Question 6


Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Deb Adoff

"YES. As I said, every child, regardless of social standing or zip code, deserves a quality education in a clean, safe, comfortable environment."

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Deb Adoff

"YES. It takes a special kind of person to be a good teacher. I am afraid that they will all be scared away from the profession for lack of a living wage."

Question 3

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

Deb Adoff

"YES. I believe every child should have access to a quality preschool education, regardless of income or zip code."

Question 2

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

Deb Adoff

"YES. Absolutely. Every child should be interacting with other children on a regular basis in order to strengthen their interpersonal communication skills."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Deb Adoff

"YES. Child soak up information like a sponge until the age of 7. Every effort should be made not to waste these formative, information-gathering years."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Melissa Cerrato

"YES. As a single mother with my oldest daughter, finding affordable childcare was an extremely challenging aspects of balancing work and family life. The cost of quality early childhood education can be prohibitively high, making it difficult to secure a spot in a reputable facility. Additionally, the limited availability of subsidized programs means that many families are left on long waiting lists, further complicating the search for reliable care.

In my personal experience, the struggle to find affordable childcare meant having to make tough decisions about work hours and career opportunities.

This issue is not unique to me; many constituents have shared similar stories of the difficulties they face in securing affordable and quality childcare. It’s clear that we need to advocate for more accessible and affordable ECE options to support working families and ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Melissa Cerrato

Yes, I believe that making childcare more accessible and affordable will significantly help businesses find more qualified workers. When parents have reliable and affordable childcare options, they are better able to participate in the workforce without the stress and distraction of worrying about their children’s care.

Accessible and affordable childcare allows parents to pursue their careers and education, leading to a more skilled and qualified workforce. This, in turn, benefits businesses by expanding the pool of potential employees who are ready and able to contribute effectively. Moreover, when parents know their children are in a safe and nurturing environment, they can focus more on their work, increasing productivity and job satisfaction.

Investing in childcare is not just a support for families; it is a strategic economic decision that strengthens our workforce and boosts our economy. By ensuring that all families have access to high-quality childcare, we are creating a more inclusive and prosperous community for everyone.

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Melissa Cerrato

"Yes, I wholeheartedly support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds. Investing in early childhood education is one of the most effective ways to ensure that all children have the opportunity to succeed.

High-quality Pre-K programs provide young children with a strong foundation in both academic and social-emotional skills. These programs help children develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the social skills necessary to navigate the classroom environment.

By supporting these programs, we are not only preparing children for kindergarten but also setting them up for long-term success in school and life. Increased state funding for high-quality Pre-K ensures that these valuable programs are accessible to all families, regardless of their economic background. It is an investment in our future workforce and in the overall well-being of our communities. By prioritizing early childhood education, we are making a commitment to the future success of our children and our state."

Question 2

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

Melissa Cerrato

Yes, I believe that high-quality Pre-K programs are instrumental in building strong social and emotional skills in young children. These programs provide a structured environment where children can learn to interact with their peers, manage their emotions, and develop essential social skills.

Research has shown that children who attend high-quality Pre-K are better prepared for the challenges of early school years. They enter kindergarten with a solid foundation of social and emotional competencies, such as cooperation, empathy, and self-regulation. These skills are crucial for academic success and overall well-being.

By investing in high-quality Pre-K, we are not only preparing our children for school but also setting them up for lifelong success. These early experiences help children develop the confidence and resilience they need to thrive in school and beyond. Together, with the support of dedicated educators and parents, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to build a strong foundation for their future.

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Melissa Cerrato

"Yes, I believe that the first three years of life are crucial to a child’s development. These formative years lay the groundwork for a child’s future learning, behavior, and health. Research consistently shows that early experiences shape the brain’s architecture, establishing the foundation for all future development.

High-quality childcare programs play a vital role in this process. When young children attend these programs, they benefit from the expertise of talented staff who work alongside parents to nurture and develop essential skills. These professionals provide a stimulating and supportive environment that promotes cognitive, social, and emotional growth.

By investing in quality childcare, we are investing in our children’s future. Talented staff in these programs help to ensure that infants and toddlers develop strong foundational skills, setting them on a path to success in school and life. Together, with the support of dedicated parents, we can create a nurturing environment that maximizes the potential of these critical early years.

"Supporting American families means supporting their childcare needs. Working parents need quality childcare that keeps their children safe while they work. Childcare should not only provide for basic needs like those of nutrition, sanitation, and socialization, but the quality of care should be high and enriching. The quality childcare sets the stage of child development and development for the rest of their lives. Let's invest in American families by investing in our children."

Beth Farnham

Question 9

Do you support adoption of the expanded refundable Child Tax Credit of $3,600 per child under 5 years old and $3,000 for children ages 5-17 years old?

Zach Womer

"Yes, I would expand the Child Tax Credit to $5,000 per child."

Question 1

Do you support lifting the cap on federal discretionary spending for the purpose of increasing federal funds for child care, Head Start, home visiting programs and Early Intervention (Parts B and C) so that all eligible children can be enrolled in these programs?

Zach Womer

"Yes and we need greater expansion of non-profits to fill these roles in rural America, as in my experience, even when funds are available, in the most rural areas of our country there are no providers."

Question 3

Do you agree that the federal government should cover the cost of subsidized child care so that working families who are eligible for child care subsidy pay no more than 7% of household income for child care?

Zach Womer

"Yes, The child care cost burden for nearly every county in my district is larger than 30%."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Tim M. Burns

"YES. I'd argue for younger than 3 for those with special needs."

Question 8

Will you support more state funds spent for home visiting programs that help new parents care for their babies?    

Timothy Patrick Brennan

"YES. I strongly support this idea in principle, though I would of course need to see the details of a specific program before making a decision about a vote."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

TImothy Patrick Brennan

"YES. Though this is true for all children, it is especially true for those with disabilities; as part of my strong commitment to ensure a better quality of justice for all Pennsylvanians with disabilities, issues surrounding early childhood wellbeing are especially important to me."

Question 8

Will you support more state funds spent for home visiting programs that help new parents care for their babies?    

Tarah Probst

"YES. I have a proven record on supporting this."

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Tarah Probst

"YES. I advocate for this in Harrisburg."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Tarah Probst

"YES. For every $1 invested in PreK for children, we get a $17 return. Studies have proven that pre K students go on to graduate high school and have brighter futures. This also helps our economy so that their parents can work. It is good for our communities and society."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Stefanie Rafes

"YES. My best friend chose to give up her 6 figure career because it did not make financial sense to pay for child care for her 4 children. Now a family of 6 (plus pets) must survive on her husbands salary alone. It is quite a struggle."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Shelby E. Labs

"YES. I hear everyday from folks across the district about the struggles of finding good affordable child care."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Shelby E. Labs

"YES. I have supported historic funding as co-chair of the early education caucus."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Shelby E. Labs

"YES. I have been one of the loudest voices in the legislature for early childhood education, including co-chairing the bipartisan early childhood caucus."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Sara Agerton

"YES. Three of my nieces in rural areas went to Pre-K. One received early intervention but was not diagnosed, now the family is having difficulty finding specialists."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Sara Agerton

"YES. Childcare is one of the largest expenses working families have to make decisions around. We need to make childcare affordable for everyone."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Sara Agerton

"YES. We need to attract the best possible candidates and make sure we are compensating people for their work."

Question 2

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

Sara Agerton

"YES. Every child needs access to Pre-K education. As a social worker, I've seen the difference these protective factors make in outcomes later in life. Every child deserves the same start in life."

Question 2

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

Robert Vigue

"YES. High-quality Pre-K can have a profound and lasting impact on a child's readiness for school, setting them up for success both academically and socially."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Robert Vigue

"YES. The first three years of a child's life are incredibly important for their development. During this period, a child's brain is rapidly growing, and the experiences they have can significantly shape their cognitive, emotional, and social development. High-quality child care programs with talented and caring staff can play a crucial role in fostering this development."

Question 7

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Rayne R. Reitnauer

"YES. This is such an important job, and we should compensate accordingly."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Rayne R. Reitnauer

"YES. As a small business owner, I have hired people who have had restricted availability due to childcare concerns. We have matched hours worked to those that their children are in school, when possible."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Rajeev N. Pradhan

"YES. High costs are already frustrating, but limited availability of programs or finding care that aligns with our schedules has always been the most challenging... it's a challenge facing too many families in my district."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Rajeev N. Pradhan

"YES. Similarly to question 4... investments support the well-being of families, but it also has broader economic benefits - greater workforce participation and stability."

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Rajeev N. Pradhan

"YES. Boosting the wages is fundamentally important for attracting and retaining quality professionals in the field. Competitive wages can help ensure that child care workers are well-qualified, motivated, and provide a high level of care. It also helps retain a more consistent environment - staff stability versus turnover."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Rajeev N. Pradhan

"YES. High child care costs can be a significant barrier for many parents, particularly those with lower wages. When child care is expensive, it can make financial sense for individuals to stay home rather than work, which limits the available workforce and affects their ability to take on or continue employment."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Patrick J. Harkins

"YES. I have been a strong supporter for 18 years."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Patricia Lawton

"YES. I am a speech-language pathologist who has some expertise in child development. This is an area in which I am very passionate."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Nikki Rivera

"YES. All of our children attended ECE programs. Without a doubt, those programs prepared our kids for full-day kindergarten, good habits, and an excitement to learn."

Question 7

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Nikki Rivera

"YES. Hiring highly educated and trained teachers for kids gives them the best chance of meeting and surpassing expectations in school."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Nikki Rivera

"YES. Kindergarten readiness programs help ensure that kids are ready to hit the ground running the moment they enter K-12 schools."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Nate Davidson

"YES. We are parents of 2 (currently 15 months and 4 months old) and both attend child care most days of the week."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Michael Zvalaren

"YES. I had to work nights and weekends for years around my wife's schedule because childcare was prohibitively expensive. That problem has only gotten worse in recent years for parents of young children. I understand that struggle, and am committed to making it easier for parents of young children to afford life."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Meriam H. Sabih

"YES. When I think about the issues facing our Commonwealth today, education is at the forefront. I believe that access to quality education is essential and I am committed to working tirelessly to ensure that every child has the support and resources they need to succeed. My approach is centered on providing opportunities for teachers, parents, and students to collaborate on creating a robust and engaging learning experience. This includes raising the standards of our schools, providing funding for educational resources, as well as improving and updating school infrastructure, and supporting diverse extracurricular activities. I believe in early access to education including pre K for all children."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Megan Kocher

"YES. My mom is a day care director. I know this to be a fact."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Mary Josephine Daley

"YES. My daughter was born in 1972, so it’s a long time ago. When she was 4-years old, I divorced my husband and moved back to my home town. My mother was still living and was able to I help me with child care. With a full time job, it would have been impossible to have managed without her. I did not make enough to pay for childcare and I made too much to be eligible for any kind of subsidy. That was over 50 years ago, and it does not seem that we have improved the situation for parents. Too many parents struggle with the cost of childcare and too many childcare providers struggle with finding enough staff, often because the childcare jobs do not pay them enough. Without enough staff, providers struggle with increasing tuition for young families. I have supported working families and initiatives to increase funding for ECE my entire time as a state rep. When I think of how fortunate I was to have my mother take care of my daughter when she was not in school, I am convinced that we can do more as a state government to actually address this issue."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Mark Joseph Temons II

"YES. We were struggling with absolutely nothing left over, and we couldn't have continued indefinitely when our youngest daughter was still in preschool we had to pay for. Like many families, we were just waiting to get to kindergarten and save those costs."

Question 9

Will you advocate for increased access to services that connect youth and families to work?

Mark Joseph Temons II

"Yes, My wife is the owner of a workforce development firm, which is our family business, so we are very aware of how much more the state could do to help with youth job placement."

Question 7

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Mark Joseph Temons II

"YES. Expanding Pre-K through the public school system would be a great way to ensure this."

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Mark Joseph Temons II

"YES. Early childhood educators do not make nearly enough right now."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Mark Joseph Temons II

"YES. Access to childcare is probably the number 1 factor limiting our workforce as a state right now."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Mark Joseph Temons II

"YES. I believe we need to do a better job funding our public schools, and I believe part of that could include expanding to full-day kindergarten where we don't yet have it and then also to pre-K."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Mark Joseph Temons II

"YES. My children are in 5th grade, 3rd grade, and Kindergarten, so we are just past this stage of parenting, and we know very well what a challenge it can be to afford quality childcare. I am committed to making it universally available to PA families."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Margaret A. Zelenak

"YES. I do not personally but hear from voters that there is a lack of affordable child care in some of the rural areas."

Question 9

Will you advocate for increased access to services that connect youth and families to work?

Margaret A. Zelenak

"Yes, this would help to connect business with potential workers. Many are not aware of the opportunities within their own community."

Question 8

Will you support more state funds spent for home visiting programs that help new parents care for their babies?    

Margaret A. Zelenak

"YES. We must support parents with babies so that they can have the resources for a healthy baby and their development."

Question 7

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Margaret A. Zelenak

"YES. I typed Yes but this is not a black and white answer. If the workers have the same qualifications, their wage should be the equivalent. On the other hand, if a family is paying for child care, it will increase the cost for many. Therefore, there must be an tax credit or supplement for families based on their income."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Margaret A. Zelenak

"YES. The child tax credit must be reviewed to assist families with child care."

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Margaret A. Zelenak

"YES. This is one of the issues. When seeking employment, the wage is forefront with many. They can earn more working in other industries, even fast food, so they don't even apply to jobs in child care."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Margaret A. Zelenak

"YES. Expanding access to high quality child care is central to addressing the current workforce shortage. Additionally, I’ve supported efforts to increase the state’s minimum wage, expand workers’ protections, increase access to vocational training and higher education and expand public transportation. We all benefit when employees have dependable child care providers they can trust and opportunities for employment that respects their skills and provides wages that enable them to support their families."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Margaret A. Zelenak

"YES. Investing state funds for high-quality pre-k education is a win-win. Children have increased positive experiences and outcomes throughout elementary and high school and this investment reduces the need for other intervention programs down the line. I have fought hard for high quality pre-k funding and budget increases during my nine years in the State House, lobbying my colleagues and the Governor."

Question 2

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

Margaret A. Zelenak

"YES. As a school counselor, I am very familiar with the benefits of Pre-K schooling."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Margaret A. Zelenak

"YES. There needs to be a focus on expanding the availability of child care programs and to recruit staff to provide the care."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Lynn McCleary

"YES. My daughter has put her own career on hold to provided child-care for her grandsons while their mom goes to nursing school. It would otherwise cost more than their mortgage!"

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Lynn McCleary

"YES. The minds of children are like sponges, and the earlier they begin on a path of guided curiosity, the more likely they will be to love learning throughout life."

Question 8

Will you support more state funds spent for home visiting programs that help new parents care for their babies?    

Leanne Krueger

"YES. Yes, I supported state investment to serve those in my district who can benefit from home visiting. Parents and children both benefit from home visiting programs that provide education and support during critical developmental periods. The distinct characteristics of these home visiting models increases the likelihood that parents will be able to develop trusting relationships with providers. Investment in these resources will save the state money in intervention programs for older children and adolescents and reduce adverse childhood experiences."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Leanne Krueger

"YES. As a working single mom, I could not do my job without childcare. It is critically important that working families have access to affordable and high quality child care across my district. Unlike public schools, many preschools and child care centers do not receive public funding. This model creates a burden for parents to fund child care and preschool through tuition payments; likewise, child care centers are annually faced with budgetary decisions that force them to choose between pay raises for their staff or trying to keep tuition affordable. I support using public resources to increase access to high quality child care and preschool with wages that reflect the importance of this work and the credentials of providers. Child care directly impacts parents’ ability to work and adversely impacts households’ income. Currently, I see disproportionate access to high quality child care due to its high cost and waiting lists, making it prohibitive for many families. This leaves parents with tough choices and exacerbates income inequality in addition to differences in children’s preparation for elementary school."

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Leanne Krueger

"Yes! Yes, the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers should be commensurate with those of other educators with similar qualifications and experience. Current wage rates for child care workers and preschool teachers do not reflect the value of their work to our broader communities. When they see a path, many preschool teachers transition to elementary schools in order to make a living wage for their families, which means there are less experienced pre-school teachers to mentor individuals new to the field and to instruct our children."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Leanne Krueger

"YES. Expanding access to high quality child care is central to addressing the current workforce shortage. Additionally, I’ve supported efforts to increase the state’s minimum wage, expand workers’ protections, increase access to vocational training and higher education and expand public transportation. We all benefit when employees have dependable child care providers they can trust and opportunities for employment that respects their skills and provides wages that enable them to support their families."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Leanne Krueger

"YES. Investing state funds for high-quality pre-k education is a win-win. Children have increased positive experiences and outcomes throughout elementary and high school and this investment reduces the need for other intervention programs down the line. I have fought hard for high quality pre-k funding and budget increases during my nine years in the State House, lobbying my colleagues and the Governor."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Kyle Donahue

"YES. My wife and I have 2 beautiful girls, a 3-year old and almost 2-year old. Although we both work and do well financially, it is still quite expensive to send our girls to daycare/Pre-K for only 3-days a week. If we didn’t have the support system we are lucky to have, we wouldn’t be able to both work."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Kenya Johns

"YES. My husband and I had to stop having children because access to adequate and affordable child care was a barrier."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

K.C. Tomlinson

"YES. We did a little in this year's budget (an increase of $33M for Pre-K Counts). And there is a long way to go."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Judith Schwank

"YES. I’m a grandmother who supports daycare tuition for my grandchildren."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Judith Schwank

"YES. The child care payment model does not work for families or providers. Government investment is essential."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Judith Schwank

"YES. This is a top goal for me in next year’s budget."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Joseph G. Webster

"YES. My current district office shares the building with an early learning center. These wonderful teachers are underpaid, have great difficulty making ends meet for themselves, and still give so much to the children they care for. But managing that program is very difficult because recruiting and retaining the best teachers is hard to do on a shoe-string budget."

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Joseph G. Webster

"Yes! See #4. There are staffing issues across many important health and service areas (teachers, nurses, counselors...). Because we don't pay these professionals what they're really worth. This is especially true for childcare and early learning specialists."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Joseph G. Webster

"YES. And I believe our next focus needs to be on increasing wages for childcare providers and for early learning teachers."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Joseph G. Webster

"YES. We did a little in this year's budget (an increase of $33M for Pre-K Counts). And there is a long way to go."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Joseph G Webster

"YES. I've seen this in my own experience, with my own children. And we (finally) raised the reimbursement rate this year for child care providers."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Joseph F. Hogan

"NO. I am expecting my first child. My wife is an only child and my siblings benefited from having grandparents that could bear part of the burden of early childcare and education. However, I have many friends and colleagues that struggle in this space every day. I know the costs that working families have to bear and the struggle it is to find high quality programs in their community."

Question 9

Will you advocate for increased access to services that connect youth and families to work?

Joseph F. Hogan

"YES. There is dignity in work and I believe it should be taught at a young age. Making it easier for young people to enter careers has been a priority and I've supported additional funding for CTE programs."

Question 8

Will you support more state funds spent for home visiting programs that help new parents care for their babies?    

Joseph F. Hogan

"YES. As an expecting father, I understand the need for these services. Especially for children with disabilities and parents learning to navigate their new role."

Question 7

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Joseph F. Hogan

"YES. My Bucks County colleagues and I have held meetings with providers and visited facilities to understand the challenges facing providers. Wages are one of the top issues that is discussed along with the various certifications and other qualifications to work in this space. In order to have high quality programs, we need high quality workers that feel valued. "

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Joseph F. Hogan

"YES. I have supported budgets that increase funding for these programs."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Joseph F. Hogan

"YES. I have spoken at length and on the record with business groups about how I feel these services help to grow our economy. They prepare children for their future and allow parents to continue to grow into their careers."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Joseph F. Hogan

"YES. I have been a vocal advocate for these programs and their providers. "

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Joseph Ciresi

"YES. Quality, affordable childcare is out-of-reach for too many families, which harms our economy. "

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Joseph Ciresi

"YES. We made additional progress with the budget signed this summer, but we can always do more for education. "

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Joseph Ciresi

"YES. Those years are crucial to early literacy and social skills, studies show."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

John Kane

"YES. My wife, Lori, is a kindergarten teacher. I've heard a lot from her about just how important early years are to a child's development. She's told me just how much their young minds are ready to learn, and her stories have impressed upon me the importance of early childhood care and education."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

John Flood

"YES. Any investment in early childhood development is critical and we should always fight for more"

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

John C. Inglis III

"YES. I know many parents that struggle with the costs of child care."

Question 9

Will you advocate for increased access to services that connect youth and families to work?

John C. Inglis III

"YES. I think this investment should go hand in hand with investments in child care to show its benefit."

Question 8

Will you support more state funds spent for home visiting programs that help new parents care for their babies?    

John C. Inglis III

"YES. I am in favor of anyway we can expand needed care."

Question 7

Should the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers be commensurate with those of other educators who work in k-12 schools and have similar qualifications?  

John C. Inglis III

"Yes. Common sense. The level of care demands more in some cases."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

John C. Inglis III

"YES. This should be an equitable investment, prioritizing who needs it the most."

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

John C. Inglis III

"YES. Yes, higher wages, trainings, and certifications can enhance the quantity and quality of staff."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

John C. Inglis III

"Yes. I think the benefits to our society and economy can be invaluable."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

John C Inglis III

"YES. Absolutely. I will adamantly fight for this."

Question 2

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

John C Inglis III

"YES. As a school counselor, I am very familiar with the benefits of Pre-K schooling."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

John C Inglis III

"YES. I believe in funding more programs that allow this service to be available to be more available and accessible."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Jennifer O'Mara

"YES. My family structure has one working parent and one stay at home parent, but we only ended up this way because we realized it was more affordable for my husband to stop working than it would be for us to pay for my daughter's childcare. He will go back to work when she enters school full time, which for us won't be until she's 6 years old and in 1st grade because our district doesn't offer full day kindergarten. We are just one example of how unaffordable childcare has hurt our economy."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Jennifer O'Mara

"YES. I will continue working with Children First and other advocates to fight for more funding for high-quality pre-K education."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Jennifer O'Mara

"YES. As a new mom and a legislator, I understand how critical this time is in a child's life and I'm dedicated to doing all I can to support early childhood development."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Jared Peter Bitting

"Yes. When caregivers are forced to give up careers in order to care for their children, the workplace loses out on highly qualified workers with unique perspectives. Funding child care prevents caregivers from having to make this difficult decision."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Jared Peter Bitting

"YES. As a public school teacher I have seen first hand the benefits of high quality Pre-K for my students and fully support funding to ensure children have access to early childhood education."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Jared G. Solomon

"YES. Rep. Solomon is proud of the work he has done to bring high-quality early childhood education programs to Northeast Philadelphia and he looks forward to continuing that work."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Hadley Haas

"YES. When my children were little, it was a struggle to find a suitable childcare solution for our family. My sons required intensive speech habilitation/therapy, had frequent audiology appointments and several surgeries. While we relied in part on my income, I also felt the need to be present for them during this critical time in their development. We tried several iterations during those years. It was a difficult and stressful time."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Hadley Haas

"Yes. I have seen many parents opt out of the workforce because of the cost of childcare."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Hadley Haas

"YES. My sons were both born with sensorineural hearing loss. We fought for them to attend a school where they would maximize input they received during those early years. I have seen firsthand how important quality early education can be to children."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Gregory Scott

"YES. This will help families greatly and set children up for success in school."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Gregory Scott

"YES. The first three years are crucial to a child’s development, and high-quality child care programs with skilled staff can make a significant impact. These early experiences help establish a strong foundation for future learning and development.'

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Davon Magwood

"No. My children are grown, but when I was a young mom, it definitely was challenging."

Question 8

Will you support more state funds spent for home visiting programs that help new parents care for their babies?    

Elizabeth Moro

"YES. Helping new parents get early help is so beneficial.'


Question 7

Should the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers be commensurate with those of other educators who work in k-12 schools and have similar qualifications?  

Elizabeth Moro

"Yes. They have one of the most important jobs so I definitely will be an advocate for them."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Elizabeth Moro

"YES. This is essential for working parents."

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Elizabeth Moro

"YES. Their work is essential and very important for our Commonwealth."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Elizabeth Moro

"Yes. Absolutely."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Elizabeth Moro

"YES. This will help families greatly and set children up for success in school."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Eleanor Breslin

"YES. I belive in this so strongly I founded a Montessori pre-school when my children were young."

Question 8

Will you support more state funds spent for home visiting programs that help new parents care for their babies?    

Denise Maris

"YES. I've been a fortunate recipient of home visit, it helped me get back on my feet quicker and give amazing care to my sons."


Question 9

Will you advocate for increased access to services that connect youth and families to work?

Denise Maris

"YES. Yes, especially in our rural area where access is very limited."

Question 7

Should the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers be commensurate with those of other educators who work in k-12 schools and have similar qualifications?  

Denise Maris

"Yes. Yes because they do amazing work and should be recognized for it."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Denise Maris

"YES. Especially in rural area where the financial impact of child care can determine if they can afford to send their children or not."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Denise Maris

"Yes, because workers would not have to worry about the quality of care their children would receive."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Denise Maris

"YES. With the current environment especially in our rural area providing funding is important to ensure that our children have a good educational foundation."

Question 7

Should the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers be commensurate with those of other educators who work in k-12 schools and have similar qualifications?  

David H. Zimmerman

"No. Baby sitting should not require the same education level as K through 12."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Denise Maris

"YES. As a mom to 4 children, development is extremely important for a child in their younger years especially language and social skills. "

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Davon Magwood

"YES. Finding affordable, high quality childcare has been a challenge I've experienced firsthand. '

Question 9

Will you advocate for increased access to services that connect youth and families to work?

Davon Magwood

"YES. I plan on fighting for the common working family. Their experiences and struggles are shared by myself."

Question 8

Will you support more state funds spent for home visiting programs that help new parents care for their babies?    

Davon Magwood

"YES. We had one of these programs when my daughter was born, and it was very nice and helped us greatly."


Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Davon Magwood

"YES. The more accessible we make this care, the more parents can use it, which helps them get back to work, with a nice piece of mind."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Davon Magwood

"Yes, If parents are able to have their children in a safe, welcoming environment. Parents will be free to work more.."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Davon Magwood

"YES. I believe pre-k needs to be just as well funded as our schools, it helps our children prepare and gives our parents much needed help. It takes a village."

Question 2

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

Davon Magwood

"YES. Pre K is so necessary for your babies to socialize and learn in a fun environment and it's great for them to get used to how school is going to be. Early education during this time is important. And it's my goal to make sure we get more kids involved in these programs."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Davon Magwood

"YES. I have 3 children of my own, my oldest is 8 and I've been hands on with their development. I know how important the early years are for both baby and family."

Question 8

Will you support more state funds spent for home visiting programs that help new parents care for their babies?    

David H. Zimmerman

"No. Parent need to take responsibility and not wait and depend on government."


Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

David H. Zimmerman

"NO. That is to young, let them be kids."

Question 2

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

David H. Zimmerman

"YES. Only if it is training and encourage and not indoctrination."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

David H. Zimmerman

"No. Ideally the first three years spent with parents and family."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Cynthia P. Ward

"YES. As previously stated, I have an ECE degree. My son attended the preschool that employed me and if it were not for the employee discount, I would not have been able to afford daycare."

Question 7

Should the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers be commensurate with those of other educators who work in k-12 schools and have similar qualifications?  

Cynthia P. Ward

"This is difficult to answer. An ECE Degree is 2 years of college whereas an Elem Ed Degree is 4 years and requires continuing training/education every year. Daycare centers are typically privately owned so higher salaries will result in higher rates for parents, thus making childcare less affordable. Educators in the public school system receive their wages through contracts and taxes. Obviously, I would love to see daycare and preschool workers receive higher wages so this definitely needs some discussions and brain storming.

Question 2

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

Cynthia P. Ward

"YES. Quality preschools prepare children for kindergarten and good social interactions."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Cynthia P. Ward

"YES. I have a degree in Early Childhood Education. Previously held positions include Lead Preschool Teacher and Associate Director at Mulberry Childcare Centers. Currently, I'm on the school board at East Pennsboro Area School District."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Christopher Pielli

"YES. See Legislative Record."

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Christopher Pielli

"YES. See Legislative Record."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Christopher Pielli

"Yes, See Legislative Record."

Question 7

Should the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers be commensurate with those of other educators who work in k-12 schools and have similar qualifications?  

Christina D. Sappey

"YES. Especially if they pursue certifications etc."


Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Christina D. Sappey

"See comment in Question 4."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Christina D Sappey

"Yes, I absolutely agree this will help our employers. It will also help lower wait lists and bring back the childcare workforce we've lost in the last few years!"

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Chris Rabb

"YES. https://www.instagram.com/p/C-D6eikJeOO/?igsh=MTI2bzRnd2o3eDNpaA==

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Cherri Rogers

"YES. With qualifying staff."

Question 7

Should the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers be commensurate with those of other educators who work in k-12 schools and have similar qualifications?  

Cherri Rogers

"YES. With the qualifying education."



Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Cheri Rogers

"YES. Not only am I a mom. I’m a school nurse in a district with a strong early childhood education program ."

Question 2

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

Cherri Rogers

"YES. Not only am I a mom. I’m a school nurse in a district with a strong early childhood education program ."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Carol Hill-Evans

"YES. I was a single mom for the first 6 years and struggled to find care with learning environments. When I did the cost was expensive."

Question 7

Should the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers be commensurate with those of other educators who work in k-12 schools and have similar qualifications?  

Chad Gerald

"NO. I believe that the market is best suited to determine compensation and that is shouldn’t be “pegged” to another profession."



Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Carolyn T. Comitta

"YES. My “yes” answer is predicated on the amount of funding, where it’s raised, how it’s allocated, etc. "

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Chad Gerald Reichard

"YES. Would love to have seen a great boost in the PA 2024-2025 budget to support a much-needed increase to salaries for our care staffs."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Chad Gerald Reichard

"YES. My “yes” answer is predicated on the amount of funding, where it’s raised, how it’s allocated, etc."

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Carolyn T Comitta

"YES. As a former public school teacher and a mother and grandmother, I've seen firsthand how just how important quality early childhood education programs are in setting our kids up for success in school, work, and life. I have also see how such programs are pivotal in allowing parents to return to work or pursue other opportunities."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Carolyn T. Comitta

"YES. Quality, accessible and affordable childcare is a key part of our human services infrastructure. "

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Carolyn T. Comitta

"Yes, it's an investment in our economy and our economic future. "

Question 9

Will you advocate for increased access to services that connect youth and families to work?  

Carol Hill-Evans

"YES. Already have advocated for youth/family connections to work and work programs that help our students as well as their parents with the challenges and opportunities to services."



Question 8

Will you support more state funds spent for home visiting programs that help new parents care for their babies?    

Carol Hill-Evans

"YES. Have already and will continue to advocate for State budget increases to assure our new parents are prepared for the challenges of being new parents."


Question 7

Should the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers be commensurate with those of other educators who work in k-12 schools and have similar qualifications?  

Carol Hill-Evans

"YES. Pre school teachers should be paid commensurate with the educational and experiential education and training they have for the job."



Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Carol Hill-Evans

"YES. Would love to have seen a great boost in the PA 2024-2025 budget to support a much-needed increase to salaries for our care staffs."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Carol Hill-Evans

"YES. In most households mothers usually take time off work to recover from childbirth and to care for their infant. Due to increased child care cost, frequent child illness from introduction into daycare and exposure to other children, it is often the mother who takes additional time off work. This denies the mother from potential professional growth and denies the community her professional skills. Paid maternity leave, affordable childcare will partially lower these barriers."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Carol Hill-Evans

"YES. Early childhood provider salaries are not near what they should be and it is our responsibilities as state elected officials to provide funding to assure our children are being taught by well trained professionals."

Question 2

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

Carol Hill-Evans

"YES. I visit as many early childhood centers as possible so I can witness first hand how our children are being taught and trained from an early age."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Carol Hill-Evans

"YES. It's imperative that our children get the best education possible and that starts in the womb and continues throughout childhood from the earliest time through all the young formative years"

Question 10

Do you or family members have personal experiences with ECE they’d like to share (or more specifically, struggles finding child care)?

Cameron Schroy

"YES. My mother is a career early childhood educator. She has worked for HeadStart and private child care centers. Her love of teaching inspired me to become an educator. I have the highest respect for ECEs and will be an advocate for their interests in Harrisburg. "

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Brian Munroe

"YES. In the most recent budget we were able to secure millions more for out Pre-K Counts program, though this increase in funding does not address the needs of the State, and more funding should be allocated in the future."

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Anju Singh

"YES. Child care staff should be able to make respectable wages in accordance to their training and experience."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Anju Singh

"YES. In most households mothers usually take time off work to recover from childbirth and to care for their infant. Due to increased child care cost, frequent child illness from introduction into daycare and exposure to other children, it is often the mother who takes additional time off work. This denies the mother from potential professional growth and denies the community her professional skills. Paid maternity leave, affordable childcare will partially lower these barriers."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Anju Singh

"YES. Ideally, the first year a child could benefit from being at home and growing a strong bond with parents, a sense of safety, and security. After the age of one, closer to two years children benefit from interacting with other children, learning social skills, forming relationships outside the immediate family."

Question 2

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

Anita Astorino Kulik

"YES. I have always supported and advocated for Pre K programs."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Anita Astorino

"YES. My record shows that I am firmly committed to this.

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Angela Girol

"YES. Allowing a pay increase will attract highly qualified individuals who are committed to the field."

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Angela Girol

"YES. Many parents cannot afford to work and pay daycare expenses. As a former admin for before and after school care, I’ve seen parents avoid payments for the programs because they can’t afford to pay their bills and afford child care."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Angela Girol

"YES. Preschool is a vital part of a child’s development. It allows for socialization, interpersonal development and a chance to be learning skills they will need to succeed in school."

Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Anand Patel

"YES. I support increasing state funds provided that child care agencies are disallowed from raising prices because of the subsidy."

Question 9

Will you advocate for increased access to services that connect youth and families to work?  

Alex Taylor

"YES. Programs like this not only help people out of financial situations but also can help reduce the amount of crime due to people having access to good jobs instead of having to turn to crime to make ends meet."



Question 7

Should the wages for child care workers and preschool teachers be commensurate with those of other educators who work in k-12 schools and have similar qualifications?  

Alex Taylor

"YES. Child care workers and preschool teachers are of equal importance as those in the K-12 schools.



Question 6

Do you support increasing state funds for child care so that more families can afford child care?

Alex Taylor

"YES. The average cost of child care has gone from ~ $90/week in 1994 to ~ $321/week in 2024. That is a 28% increase over the past 30 years, and accounts for on average 23% of the annual income of a Pennsylvanian today, when back in 1994 childcare only accounted for 14%. We can't expect people to work when doing so would put them in even more financial distress."

Question 5

Do you support increasing state funds to boost the wages of child care staff?

Alex Taylor

"YES. Child Care Staff and Teachers deserve to be paid more, they are molding our nations most important resource and they don't get the pay or the recognition they deserve.

Question 4

Do you believe that making child care more accessible and affordable will help businesses find more qualified workers? 

Alex Taylor

"YES. When I was a scheduler for Voices for Independence, one obstacle I always came across was that the Home Care Attendants I was calling to fill shifts didn't have child care and so couldn't take shifts, this frustrated them because they couldn't make more money and it frustrated me (the employer) as I couldn't utilize good attendants."

Question 3

Would you support allocating more state funding for high-quality Pre-K education for three- and four-year-olds?

Alex Taylor

"YES. I believe we could definitely spend some more money on quality Pre-K programs. "

Question 2

Do you believe that high quality Pre-K builds strong social and emotional skills that help prepare children for early school success?

Alex Taylor

"YES. Socialization of children at a young age prepares them for the school environment, and great Pre-K programs get children ready for the experience of school."

Question 1

Do you believe that the first three years of life matter to a child’s development and that the potential of these formative years can be augmented when young children attend child care programs that have talented staff who, along with parents, help establish a strong foundation of infants’ and toddlers’ developmental skills?

Alex Taylor

"YES. My daughter just turned 3 in July, she spends her days with her grandmothers, one of which has 30+ years of childcare experience, and the other works for a school district as a teachers aid. Their influence has made her an extremely intelligent toddler.."