The state of Oregon recently received a federal grant of $20 million to strengthen its early childhood system.

The “Race to the Top – Early Learning Challenge” grant was issued through the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and will be distributed to the state over the course of four years. The grant is designed to help ensure Oregon children reach school ready to succeed by funding high-quality early learning programs for young children.

“This is a welcome endorsement of Oregon’s focus on improving early learning and school readiness,” said Gov. John Kitzhaber. “Success in school starts long before school. This federal investment in our efforts will help to improve results for children and families and contributes to our efforts to transform Oregon education at all levels.”

Recipients of the grant money are chosen based on their ability to implement compelling and comprehensive early education reform.