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Sesame Street star talks about what matters

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Sonia Manzano, "Maria" from Sesame Street, speaks at the "What Matters: Our Kids" event in Raleigh (Photo Credit: Alex Granados/EducationNC)

Sonia Manzano, known for her role as “Maria” on Sesame Street, talked about the importance of early childhood education and her experiences on television and growing up Latina at the “What Matters: Our Kids” event yesterday. 

The Triangle Community Foundation event brought together people and organizations from around the state to explore ways to ensure children can successfully grow.  

In morning sessions, speakers discussed topics of early learning, literacy, advocacy, and the data on children in North Carolina. In the afternoon, attendees heard from Lori O’Keefe, president and CEO, about some of the important statistics about children in the state and the reason why so many are determined to do something for them. 

Manzano gave the keynote speech at lunch, but before the address, she answered our questions about early childhood learning, the future of education, and the legacy of Sesame Street.