Last years reauthorization of the Head Start Act was a significant step in the right direction to assure access to quality early childhood education. The act expanded coverage to families just above the poverty line and provided additional flexibility to assist more poor families as they make the transition to work and struggle to keep up with the rising cost of living in todays new economy. We also renewed our commitment to underserved populations. such as Native Americans and migrant and seasonal farm worker families. and worked to ensure that every teacher in every Head Start classroom is highly qualified. In addition. the reauthorization established an Early Childhood Education Advisory Council to assess the needs children in of early childhood programs and develop a comprehensive plan for improving the quality of services provided. That effort will improve professional development. upgrade standards. enhance connections among programs. and improve data collection.