He got the world talking about the importance of early childhood.
Dr. Fraser Mustard’s impassioned campaign calling attention to the crucial first years of life — and how they set the stage for the health and well-being for the rest of life — inspired economists, educators and politicians around the globe.
Closer to home, the Ontario government’s recent move to full-day kindergarten can also be traced to Mustard’s influence.
“Fraser put the critical importance of investing in the early years on the world map,” said Charles Pascal, the province’s early learning adviser and architect of the full-day plan. “In this regard, his legacy will impact better futures for millions of children.”
Pascal, who called Mustard a “friend and mentor,” said that “over the 30 years I have known him, he has cajoled, supported, and taught me so much. I have never met anyone so intellectually curious about so much.”
Mustard died Wednesday after being diagnosed with cancer of the ureter, and only days before the third part of the Early Years report was to be released. He had just turned 84 last month.
Ismailimail 