Senator Kissel Recognized as a “Children’s Champion”

Receives recognition by the CT Early Childhood Alliance for his advocacy of children’s issues

Sen. Kissel stands with fellow legislators as he receives recognition as a
“Children’s Champion” for his commitment to early childhood issues.

State Senator John A. Kissel (R-Enfield) was recognized Wednesday, May 26th, by the Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance to be as a “Children’s Champion”. This recognition was given to legislators who have shown a strong commitment to early childhood issues in their district and at the state Capitol. This year, Senator Kissel supported two important pieces of legislation impacting children, SB 391 An Act Concerning Child Care Subsidies Under the Care 4 Kids Program, and HB 5360 An Act Concerning Children in the Recession. Sherry Linton of the Connecticut Association of Human Services presented Sen. Kissel with the award.

“Being selected to receive this recognition is a great honor,” said Sen. Kissel. “Providing adequate education and health care to our young people has always been one of my top priorities, but it is these organizations who work so hard to prepare our young children to succeed as students and adults who deserve the highest praise. I am happy to play a role in supporting their efforts on the legislative side of things and look forward to continuing to partner with these advocates to do the right thing for our children.”

“I would like to congratulate Sen. Kissel for being a recipient of this recognition,” said Enfield Board of Education Chairman Greg Stokes. “We have always enjoyed his interest and involvement in our community. As chairman of the Board I have found him to be always available and concerned and as a member of KITE I have always found an open door when we needed to discuss issues going on at the state level. Senator Kissel has always show compassion and understanding to the young people of our day, from high school students to those just entering pre-school.”

In addition to supporting these important bills, Senator Kissel participated in a forum hosted by Speaker of the House Chris Donovan’s “Children in the Recession Task Force” and had the opportunity to hear from parents and community leaders about the effects of the recession on children. He has continually been a strong supporter of Family Resource Centers, area Head Starts, and other organizations involved in early childhood education. In December of 2008, Senator Kissel participated in a national conference along with Dr. Janice Gruendel, Senior Advisor for Early Childhood Education in Connecticut, entitled, “Prekindergarten Institute: Building on State Leadership”.