When we work together, we can make a big difference for area elementary students.
That's the overwhelming message from United Way's 2022 Early Grade Level Success data report, released today (September 29, 2022).
Did you know that singing, reading aloud and turning everyday activities into fun learning games can help young children build a foundation for success in school, work and life? Research shows that 90% of a child’s brain develops in the first five years of life. That’s why United Way of Champaign County is working with partners, schools, child care providers, preschools and afterschool care providers to help children start school ready to succeed.
Hello! My name is Brooke and I’ve been the marketing intern here at United Way of Champaign County this summer! I am super grateful for this experience and I know I’ve learned useful skills I can apply to my future career. Since I am wrapping up my time here, I wanted to share three things I have learned about United Way.
No internet. No computer.
That may sound like a punishment doled out by parents to kids who aren’t doing their chores. But for millions of kids, it’s an everyday reality that makes it challenging to succeed in school.
Summer programs provide so much more to kids in our community than a chance to catch up academically. Classes, camps, and out-of-school activities offer kids a chance to grow and thrive so they can reach their full potential. Together with our partners, United Way of Champaign County provides free and accessible summer programs to kids in Champaign County.
Why are these programs so important? Here are five ways free summer community programs help all kids thrive.
How important is it for kids to learn to read and build strong literacy skills? Most experts agree it’s essential. Research shows:
Get more kids to school, more often.
The impact of lacking a high-quality education can start early. Kids who are not strong readers by third grade are less likely to graduate from high school. The consequences stack up from there. High school dropouts are more likely to be arrested, struggle to find employment and face health challenges. With low rates of kindergarten readiness and high rates of chronic absenteeism, the data for our community shows a difficult reality for our kids.
Every day, people in
Success in life begins with a quality education. And yet, many Champaign County children and youth enter school unprepared, lacking the support they need to strengthen their literacy and math skills and stay on track in school. Ultimately this leads to fewer students graduating high school and finding a career.
Today, United Way of Champaign County is announcing a bold goal to change the statistics. To build a community where every child can achieve their full potential, we must start with early education.
