Blagojevich signs preschool funding bill

EVANSTON -- Gov. Rod Blagojevich has signed an early childhood learning bill that will continue funding preschools across Illinois.

The governor was surrounded by more than a dozen preschool aged children when he signed the measure Monday.

He says he was moved when he attended his own child's preschool graduation and wants other children to have a similar opportunity to begin early learning.

The law includes $380 million in funding for the next fiscal year.

Blagojevich says attending preschool helps children narrow the achievement gaps, promotes learning in later school years and helps prevent anti-social behavior.

The chairman of the Illinois State Board of Education says he hopes the funding will help the state remain a national leader in preschool education.