Education
Early Learning Communities
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| The facts: |
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Kids learn to read by grade three and read to learn the rest of the way |
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Last year approximately 7,000 children in SE Michigan were reading below their grade level in 3rd grade. Most will drop out and only 2 percent will ever earn a four-year college degree |
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Every $1 invested in early childhood education saves $17 in costs incurred as they falter later in life |
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| Get involved: |
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| For more information: |
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Contact Annemarie Harris at 313-226-9482. |
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Early Learning Communities
Whether you are a grandmother, aunt, neighbor or professional childcare provider, the Early Learning Communities will provide you with additional resources for free to ensure children start school prepared and ready to learn. The ELC is facilitated by a neighborhood organization, allowing you to receive training and resources that are convenient and personalized to your needs.
Why join the ELC?
We know that the majority of development occurs before a child enters school, which means he or she must be exposed to educational opportunities from birth. In fact, studies have shown that children who can’t read by the first grade will spend their lifetimes catching up. The ELC will support your efforts to help children gain the right skills for school.
Benefits of the ELC include:
- A safe, inviting space to learn new techniques and network with peers
- Free training and resources, including a lending library with educational materials that can be used in your home
- An incentive program
- Free childcare while you attend trainings
Incentive Program
The ELC Incentive Program allows you to earn points for participating in ELC events. The points you earn can be redeemed for gift cards or professional development opportunities to help you advance your childcare skills. You can start redeeming points after attending just one or two trainings. For more information on the incentive program, speak with your ELC director.
ELC Training
Free trainings are available during the day or the evening, allowing you to find a time that suits your schedule. Topics include health and safety, conflict resolution, child development, and learning through play.
ELC Partners
In addition to United Way, the following individuals and organizations are partners in the ELC effort:
- Congressman Sander Levin
- High/Scope Educational Research Foundation
- The Great Start Collaboratives
- The Kresge Foundation
- The Max M. & Marjorie Fisher Foundation
- NCAA
- The Skillman Foundation
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