State Sen. Thomas P. Gaffey was honored Thursday night at a special reception at the Kiddie World Early Learning Center for his effort to increase funding for the state’s School Readiness program.

"This is the best money we have ever spent," said Gaffey, who represents Middletown, Middlefield and Meriden.

Last spring, Gaffey helped set aside $167,000 specifically for Middletown children. That effort led to an additional 28 spots in the program, including two new classrooms and 18 spots at Kiddie World.

"Senator Gaffey did this all on his own. Without his work, we would have never had this much needed expansion," said Christine Fahey, the School Readiness coordinator. "We know that 82 percent of children take advantage of this program and know we will be able to target the remaining 18 percent."

Gaffey stressed the importance of programs like School Readiness and knows of physical evidence that exists to support it’s impact.

"We now have three studies that show that this program has a lasting impact on 3-to-4-year-old children in enhancing their education," said Gaffey. "All children in this program have improved attendance and test scores. The kids that are in this program have an advantage over children that are not in it."

April Pugliuies has been the owner of Kiddie World for eight years and sees the positives of the program on a daily basis.

"Children is this program are less shy as they enter kindergarten and are much more ready to learn. The effect lasts throughout their entire academic career," said Pugliuies. "Children learn how to stand in line, respect their teachers, and get along with other children. It really is a big advantage."

Parents pay for the school on a sliding scale based on income and, for single parents, the program is essential while they are out making a living.

"My son would be lost without it. He gets help that otherwise he couldn’t," said Fran Stachkunas, whose grandson attends the school. "It’s very important to him and allows to him to work. We are very appreciative what the senator has done this for us."

As school officials, parents and children thanked the senator, including presenting him with two gifts made by students, Gaffey was moved to see his effort in action.

"This is the part of the job that makes your heart good," said Gaffey

"It’s nice to see the fruits of your labor."