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| Visualizing the Future
Maria* was a quiet, withdrawn three-year-old when she came to Northside Child Development Center. Her vocabulary was limited, and she had trouble interacting with others.
"Our goal is to prepare children from low-income households for kindergarten by helping them develop the academic and social skills they need to succeed," said Kim Aguilar, Northside director. "Kids who start school behind are more likely to eventually drop out."
Studies show that children who have Early Childhood Education are a benefit to the community. Society is reimbursed up to 17 times the initial investment in saved costs such as reduced crime and fewer early pregnancies.
Maria flourished at Northside, growing academically and in self-confidence. But as she began her final four months before kindergarten, complications arose.
"Maria¹s mother called in tears," Kim said. "She had just graduated and landed a good job, but her new status made her ineligible to receive a child-care subsidy. She couldn¹t afford to pay both her bills and full tuition at Northside."
Wanting to see Maria complete preparation for public school, Kim called Hennepin County and requested a scholarship. The county made an exception and granted it.
"We have a great track record of sending children to kindergarten prepared to succeed,² Kim said. "We believe they¹re worth the investment."
*Name changed for privacy
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