Nearly 40,000 Florida children a year are set on an early road to success, all before the age of five. That’s thanks to the federal Head Start program, now up for renewal.

   A bill is currently sitting on the President’s desk that would expand the invaluable preschool program, increase its funding, and ensure its teachers are properly trained.

   While the President is expected to sign it, and the legislation garnered overwhelming bipartisan support in Congress, Rep. Connie Mack voted against the bill; one of only 48 House Republicans to do so.

   Having worked in education for the past 44 years, Larry Byrnes understands the importance of early education.

   “It doesn't make sense to tout ‘No Child Left Behind’ while denying funding for the most crucial years of a child’s development,” Byrnes says. “Last year more than two million people were incarcerated, nearly six million received welfare benefits, and one million dropped out of high school. Quality early education will help save thousands of children from a similar fate.”

   Larry Byrnes has a very personal appreciation for education. As an immigrant from Canada, and the first in his family to graduate from high school, Larry worked his way through college, earning his bachelors, masters and eventually his Ph.D.

   “Supportive parents and caring teachers helped me every step of the way,” Byrnes says. “Every child needs a helping hand. No child, regardless of age, deserves to be left behind."

   Larry Byrnes has lived the American Dream, and he is committed to fighting for quality education for every child. Larry believes early education programs, like Head Start, are the foundation upon which a love of learning is built, and are crucial to educating generations to come.