Guest support
Daily SRQ Saturday outlook version
Saturday, April 27, 2024 |
by terry conner
Image courtesy of Pixabay.
As superintendent, I am wholeheartedly invested in the academic and personal success of our youngest citizens. The importance of early childhood education, especially kindergarten (Pre-K), cannot be overstated in its role in setting the stage for lifelong learning and achievement.
Research consistently shows that children who participate in high-quality preschool programs significantly improve their overall development. These students are better prepared for kindergarten, perform better in reading and math, and are less likely to need specialized educational services or retention. The long-term effects of early education include higher graduation rates, higher incomes, and lower crime and delinquency rates.
Early in my transition to the district, our team recognized that these preschool programs were at a critical juncture. Initially funded by grant income, these preschool learning programs faced an imminent threat of cancellation as the grant period neared its end. Understanding the vital role of early childhood education, we have taken decisive action to secure the future of preschool education.
Moving from a one-time grant to a sustainable financing model was essential to integrating the preschool program into Sarasota County's educational structure. Our team examined existing resources, budget allocations, and potential funding streams to identify solutions to ensure the continuity and expansion of preschool programs. Through the diligent work of our team, we were able to combine several funding opportunities and maximize the resources allocated to Sarasota County.
Sarasota County Schools currently offers 19 early learning programs in 10 elementary schools, serving approximately 247 general education preschoolers and 95 students receiving Exceptional Student Education (ESE) supports. The total enrollment capacity is 342 students. In addition, the district hosted 40 ESE preschool programs in 15 schools, with a total of 59 classrooms in 16 elementary schools.
The district plans to expand its offering of 23 early learning programs in the 2024-2025 school year. This will enable the 13 primary schools to accommodate up to 299 general education pre-school children and 115 ESE support pupils, increasing potential enrollment to a total of 414 pupils. The number of classrooms will increase to 62 classrooms in 17 elementary schools.
Based on the fall 2023 Florida Student Thinking Assessment (FAST) Star Early Literacy Assessment results, Sarasota's kindergarten readiness rate was 57%, compared to the state average of 51%. Students enrolled in Sarasota County's early learning program showed evidence of improved achievement and performance based on the district's progress monitoring data. Sixty-eight percent of Sarasota students completed the Volunteer Preschool (VPK) program in their community, highlighting the positive impact of early learning and her VPK program.
Our preschool programs aren't just surviving. They are ready to grow and are currently expanding to include VPK programming. We will strengthen our commitment to Sarasota's youngest learners by making quality early education available to more children. Our actions lay the foundation for a future where every student in Sarasota County can reach their full potential.
terrence conner Sarasota County Superintendent.
Image courtesy of Pixabay.
