Gov. LePage repeatedly states that Maine is “Open for Business,” and yet he continually makes decisions which undermine our business climate.  The latest is his proposal to cut funding for Maine’s Head Start program. As a clinician who has worked with at-risk families in Maine for many years, I know the long-term benefits of investment in early education. I am not alone – prominent business leaders held a press conference in April urging the governor to increase, not slash, Head Start funding for working families. They know that every dollar spent on Head Start generates an additional 78 cents to our economy – a huge return on investment. The program provides children and families with a “leg up” – not a “hand out” – for success.  I hope Gov. LePage will heed the advice from business leaders, working families, and advocates like myself, and restore funding to the Head Start program.

Melanie Sachs
Freeport