Note: the following proponent testimony for Ohio House Bill 96 was written and delivered by Rae Stewart before the Ohio House Children & Human Services Committee on March 5, 2025.
Chair White, Vice Chair Salvo, Ranking Member Lett, and members of the Committee,
My name is Rae Stewart, and I am the Owner and Director of Little Incredibles Early Learning Center. I’m a proud graduate from Wright State University with a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education and hold an active teaching license. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with children from grades Pre-K through 3 within the Columbus City School District.
I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for the Future Ready Five (FR5) initiative and to advocate for its continued funding.
FR5 has profoundly impacted our school community, transforming lives and enhancing the educational experiences of our children, families, and staff.
My son, Ezra, is currently attending preschool at Little Incredibles, where he is being exposed to a tremendous array of learning experiences designed to prepare him for kindergarten. The engaging activities in our classrooms are complemented by visits from local community partners such as COSI and the local library. These enriching experiences not only make learning enjoyable but also foster a lifelong love of inquiry and exploration in our children.
Furthermore, FR5 has made a significant investment in the professional development of our staff by providing access to CDA (Child Development Associate) courses at Columbus State and paid training opportunities. Through the monthly collaborative, teachers are provided opportunities to learn how to prepare preschool students for kindergarten. During these sessions a plethora of age appropriate activities and methods based on Ohio’s Early Learning Standards and the latest Early Childhood Development and Educational research are explored. Teachers walk away with a wealth of resources and ideas to share with staff and use with our students.
FR5 enables our educators to enhance their skills and expertise. This commitment to professional growth directly translates into improved educational practices in our classrooms, ultimately benefiting every child we serve.
FR5 has also prioritized parental involvement by offering valuable parent workshop opportunities. These workshops empower families with the knowledge and resources they need to support their children’s growth and development at home, creating a stronger partnership between parents and educators.
As we look to the future, it is essential to recognize that continued funding for FR5 will play a vital role in sustaining and expanding these impactful programs. By ensuring that our children have access to quality early childhood education, we are not just making an investment in their futures; we are building a foundation for healthier, more vibrant communities across Ohio.
I urge you to support the Future Ready 5 initiative, as it has proven to be a catalyst for change, bringing hope and opportunities to children and families in our state. Together, we can continue to create a bright and incredible future for every child in Ohio.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Rae Stewart
Owner/Director
Little Incredibles Early Learning Center