Push for Pre-K: Expanding access to affordable early learning in the Commonwealth
Push for Pre-K: Expanding access to affordable early learning in the Commonwealth WSLS 10
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Salem City Schools Promote Preschool Registration Event
Introduction
Salem, Virginia – Three-year-old Josiah Rickman is eagerly preparing for his first day of preschool. His mother, Desarae Rogers, describes him as a curious and energetic child who loves to learn. The family has been considering preschool for over a year, and they recently applied for the Virginia Preschool Initiative during a registration event in Salem.
Promoting Preschool Registration
The registration event aimed to encourage families to enroll their children in preschool and kindergarten. It featured various activities, including crafts, a “signing day” picture opportunity, and visits from elementary school mascots. The event was designed to make the process of registering for preschool exciting for both children and parents.
Expanding Access to Preschool
Megan Crew, the division coordinator for state and federal programs for Salem City Schools, emphasized the importance of providing access to preschool for all families. The Virginia Preschool Initiative, a federally funded program, has been instrumental in expanding preschool opportunities across the state. The General Assembly has proposed over $157 million annually for the program.
Current Availability and Future Expansion
Currently, Salem City Schools offer 78 slots for preschool students. However, the division coordinator expressed a desire to expand the program further. The schools are open to adding more classes and accommodating additional students to meet the demand for preschool education.
Qualifying Requirements
The Virginia Preschool Initiative has certain qualifying requirements. These include automatic qualifiers and local qualifiers that allow schools to address specific local needs. Automatic criteria consider factors such as single parenthood, negative impacts of COVID-19, poverty levels, and individualized education plans (IEPs).
Importance of Early Childhood Learning
Megan Crew agrees with the Virginia Board of Education’s stance on the critical need for early childhood learning. Early development standards highlight the cognitive and social benefits of children interacting with their peers and engaging in valuable discussions. Preschool education provides a head start for children like Josiah, giving them a strong foundation for future academic success.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
SDG 4: Quality Education |
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SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities |
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Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
The article addresses or connects to SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:
– Target 4.2: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys have access to quality early childhood development, care, and pre-primary education so that they are ready for primary education.
– Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
The article mentions or implies the following indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:
– Number of children enrolled in preschool programs.
– Percentage of children who meet the early development standards.
– Percentage of children from disadvantaged backgrounds enrolled in preschool programs.
These indicators can help track the progress in achieving universal access to quality early childhood education and reducing inequalities in education.
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: wsls.com
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