Editor's note: Starting with this issue, Celia C. Ayala, Ph.D., CEO of LAUP, will use this space on a monthly basis to discuss topics pertaining to LAUP's mission of increasing accessibility to quality preschool. She will also devote this column to address important issues affecting the preschool cause. Dr. Ayala welcomes your feedback via email at info@laup.net.

Are you a parent who believes in speaking up on behalf of your children? Do you wish to be an advocate on behalf of kids in your community? Do you want to learn the skills that will help you accomplish this and more?

Representatives of school districts throughout Los Angeles County recently received an update on federal education policy from U.S. Rep. Judy Chu, D-El Monte, during an LAUP Superintendent Luncheon held Aug. 26 in Downey.

With the support of Los Angeles County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky, Chase Early Learning Center in Panorama City will enhance its general child care and development program by including an LAUP preschool component.

Two bills with the potential to dramatically change early education in California had mixed results in their final legislative vote last week.

Adding to a drumbeat of concern about the nation's dismal college-completion rates, the College Board warned recently that the growing gap between the United States and other countries threatens to undermine American economic competitiveness.

It's the kids. We do it for the kids. And that is where your donation goes: to programs, classrooms and quality education that directly benefits the kids of Los Angeles County. Your investment in the children of our community pays a lifetime of positive returns. Your donation, no matter what size, helps another child move that much closer to obtaining a high-quality preschool education, which prepares them for a successful future thanks to the proven benefits of preschool education. On behalf of all the children of LAUP, we thank you for your donation and welcome you to the LAUP family.