At a time when budget constraints are affecting education programs across California, Long Beach City Councilman Robert Garcia on Sept. 21 toured a local preschool in his district, where he viewed first-hand the life-long benefits a high-quality preschool education provides children through an enriching learning environment.

Garcia's visit to Un Mundo de Amigos preschool was organized by LAUP. Through its funding, LAUP currently makes it possible for nearly 700 children in Long Beach to receive a high-quality preschool education at little or no charge at an annual investment of more than $2 million.

During his visit, Garcia viewed learning activities at three classrooms serving 116 preschoolers, met with parents, spoke with teachers about the benefits of preschool and read the book, "Llama, Llama, Red Pajama," to the delight of the students. Following his visit, Garcia spoke about the importance of increasing accessibility to high-quality preschool to the children of Long Beach and elsewhere.

"Early childhood education is extremely important to all kids regardless of their socio-economic backgrounds," he said. "It's important that government continue to provide funding to programs like LAUP to ensure that our kids are starting school on the right track."

He concluded, "The sooner you can prepare our children for school, the better it is for our community."

Celia C. Ayala, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of LAUP, said public support from elected officials like Garcia is appreciated by LAUP, as it helps solidify support for increased accessibility to quality preschool education among children.

"We truly value the support given to us by public officials such as Councilman Garcia, because it helps us in our efforts ensure children's early education needs can be met," she said. "I want to thank Councilman Garcia for taking the time to tour Un Mundo de Amigos preschool, and look forward to strengthening our relationship and collaboration with the City of Long Beach."