Supporting pre-kindergarten programs can significantly enhance the readiness of third graders to excel in their future grades.
According to Ann Sikes, president of the Montgomery Education Foundation, students who have the ability to read at a third-grade level are less likely to face difficulties in middle and high school. She emphasized that these students have a higher likelihood of graduating, being prepared for college and career, and engaging in positive behaviors that benefit both themselves and the community.
According to Sikes, extra time and resources are dedicated to helping children who are not reading at their grade level catch up.
She encouraged spreading the word about the program throughout the Montgomery community in order to attract more children to participate.
Sikes emphasized the importance of informing people about the availability of free pre-k education. She expressed her concern over the number of individuals who are unaware of this opportunity, stating, “I can’t tell you how many people we talk to who didn’t know about how to have access to free pre-k.” Sikes believes that it is unacceptable to have empty pre-k seats when there is a clear need within the community, as it does not align with the actual population demand.
According to the speaker, the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education has already provided funding for the program. However, she emphasized that this support is insufficient. She emphasized the need for additional assistance in the form of federal and state funding.
“Now, more than ever, it is crucial for us to take action,” emphasized Dawn Owens, the Director of Bold Goals. She expressed the urgent need to prioritize the success and well-being of our children. Owens firmly believes that if we fail to address the challenges our community is facing from the very beginning, we will not witness the transformative changes that are necessary.”
Sikes expressed that the leadership team at Bold Goals is focused on developing effective models for implementing the program. They have plans to collaborate with the Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama in order to create a framework that will bring transparency to the community, as well as to the school system and nonprofit organizations.
During the information meeting, the commission received the request, but no action was taken.
The Montgomery County Commission convenes at 101 South Lawrence Street on the first and third Tuesday of each month. At 10 a.m., information sessions start the day’s events, and then the formal meeting follows.
