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The Michigan Sandbox Party is a nonpartisan movement for Michigan residents who recognize the need to make sure infants, toddlers and other children are healthy, strong and ready to go when they arrive at the kindergarten door. It’s also for those who understand the crucial role that school-ready children play in Michigan's economic revival.

Today in Michigan, about 35 percent of kindergarteners are unprepared for the rigors of school. The cost to them, to Michigan and to society is enormous. Unready children are less likely to thrive and more likely to drain school resources by repeating grades and requiring special education. They’re also more likely to end up on welfare or in prison instead of becoming contributing, taxpaying adults. They even hurt our military readiness. A 2009 military study showed 75 percent of young adults aren’t qualified to serve because they failed to graduate high school, have a criminal record, or are physically unfit.

The Sandbox Party will provide leadership and a unified voice on key early childhood issues.  Through advocacy, leadership, research, and innovative programs, the Sandbox Party will address the importance of investing in the more than 750,000 Michigan residents between the ages of 0 thru age 5.