Early Learning Coalition of Indian River, Martin & Okeechobee Counties, Inc. - About Us

Building a Community of Character, United Way, Stuart, October 12, 2010

Learning to Talk and Listen

Children's Movement

Florida Back to Work Employment Program

2010-2011 VPK PROVIDER FORMS 10 & 11

Florida's Early Learning and Development Standards

Facilities-Playground Safety

H1N1 Reporting Requirements

About Us > Executive Director Message

My name is Jacki Jackson, the Executive Director of the Early Learning Coalition of Indian River, Martin and Okeechobee counties.

As we close out the 2009-2010 fiscal year, we continue to prepare for the upcoming summer programs and enrollment for the new school year. After several months of communicating to our Legislators the importance of quality early education, we are pleased to inform you that our funding has been kept whole for 2010-2011 with regard to our School Readiness grant award. Our VPK funding will be cut by .5%; however, the teacher to child ratio will remain the same which greatly benefits the quality of services offered to each child.

Our Coalition would like to thank the Legislators for sending a clear message to the residents of the State of Florida on the importance of an early education experience.

With the funding we received last year, we were able to provide services to more than 6,000 children throughout the year, ages birth - 12 years. We served 2,427 children as part of our Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten program and 3,895 children in the School Readiness program. Our organization is a vital part of the Job Creation program because parents are able to focus on their responsibilities at work knowing that their child is enrolled in a safe and nurturing educational environment.

The success of a child can be measured in many different ways; however, the foundation of that success is measured by the investment offered. It is our responsibility as a Coalition to ensure that all children are prepared for success in school-the Building Blocks to Educational Success. With the continued assistance of local providers, parents and the community, we can achieve that goal.

I encourage you to help us support more children in need by making a tax-deductible contribution to the Early Learning Coalition or contact me directly if you would like to establish a mini-grant for a specific program.

A gift in any amount not only brings hope to others, but it also enriches your own life.

Jacki Jackson

Executive Director