FOX43 Reveals How Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning Will Improve Education Access
Featuring Senate Alexander, Executive Director of CHS
The rising cost of high-quality early learning programs is a growing challenge for families in Pennsylvania and across the nation. Many kids under the age of 5—especially those from low-income homes and other disadvantaged backgrounds—don’t have opportunities to receive proper care and instruction. FOX43 reports more than 400 children in Harrisburg alone are on the waiting list for the city’s federally-funded Head Start center, a cost-free program for young children.
Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning aims to close the accessibility gaps. With the initial launch of six centers across the Commonwealth, CHS will provide education, care, nutritious meals, and other supports to hundreds of children in need.
“When we think about the Catherine Hershey Schools and what they are going to be able to do at no cost, this is going to be really life changing,” Alexander said.
CHS broke ground on its first school in Hershey last month, with construction expected to be completed in 2023. A second location that’s planned for Harrisburg’s Midtown neighborhood is set to open in 2024.