I understand the urgent and critical issues that are currently present in Alaskan Head Start Programs. I strongly encourage our State Legislature and Governor Dunleavy to return state funding to the full 20% match against the federal dollars (from my federal taxes!) that come back to Alaska. Flat funding from the state of $6.8 million dollars since 2010 (the match is now down to 11%) is unwise and is causing harm in my community. Please increase funding to $12 million in the Department of Education – Early Learning Coordination Line Item.