Opportunity gaps start early for children living in poverty. A child who enters kindergarten unprepared is 25% more likely NOT to finish high school and 60% more likely to skip college. With only half of the children in Idaho entering kindergarten prepared we have work to do. Of those unprepared at least half are living in low to moderate-income families without access to quality early care and education.
This fall we are opening the Garden City Preschool the Idaho Way morning program for children 4/5 who will enter kindergarten in the fall of 2021. It is our aim to move the dial for 20 underserved children in our community and to ensure school readiness for future students that might not otherwise thrive without a program like this. We can’t wait to share the excitement and the program from a distance of course.
Our centers all opened almost 30 days ago now and it’s been a learning curve for all. The children and teachers adjusted quickly and parents have all been amazing by keeping us informed, wearing masks when dropping off, and taking extra precautions when illness is suspected. The children are learning and thriving even with the changes, and masks don’t seem to be an issue anymore. While they can be uncomfortable, our staff is committed to keeping the children and community safe that we serve. We have the most incredible teachers and directors in the Valley!
We wish you a safe and peaceful holiday and that you stay healthy while enjoying some quality family time with those you love most.