National League of Cities Survey: Early Childhood Is a Top Priority for Nation's City Leaders

10/23/2003

From: Michael Reinemer of the National League of Cities, 202-626-3003 or 703-966-9574

News Advisory:

-- D.C. Mayor Anthony Williams and NLC President John DeStefano discuss at 1:30 p.m. Friday

To highlight the importance of early childhood development for the nation's cities, Washington, D.C. Mayor Anthony A. Williams and New Haven Mayor John DeStefano Jr. will talk about new research and programs across the U.S. at a Friday, Oct. 24 press briefing at the Penn Quarter Childhood Development Center in Washington, D.C.

DeStefano and Williams will discuss the findings from a new National League of Cities (NLC) survey that shows city leaders in the U.S. view early childhood development as a top priority. The study found that many cities are taking steps to promote early childhood development. (See Newsroom at http://www.nlc.org.)

WHAT:

Press briefing on new research and programs that show cities across U.S. are committed to improving early childhood development

WHEN:

Friday afternoon, Oct. 24, 1:30 p.m. -- 2:30 p.m.

WHERE:

Penn Quarter Partnership for Early Childhood Development Center, 410 Eighth Street, N.W. Washington, D.C., Second floor; 202-628-8572

WHO:

National League of Cities President and New Haven Mayor John DeStefano Jr. and D.C. Mayor Anthony Williams, NLC Second V.P.

The event mirrors events across the country this week that are part of "Little Kids, Big Plans" Week, Oct. 19 -- 25, which recognizes that early childhood experiences strongly influence success in school and adulthood.

Cities and towns are holding events this week to raise awareness about the importance of early childhood, celebrate programs, or launch new initiatives.

Also, more than 100 cities responded to NLC's City Challenge for Early Childhood Success by committing to develop strategic plans to promote early childhood success in their communities.

The National League of Cities is the largest national organization for American cities and towns. NLC serves as a resource and advocate for 18,000 cities, towns and villages of all sizes, from New York City to Bee Cave, Texas, which collectively serve 225 million people. Visit http://www.nlc.org.