PALM COAST, Fla. - TelAve -- The Flagler County Education Foundation, in partnership with Early Learning Coalition of Flagler & Volusia Counties and Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia Flagler Counties, will host two "Launch to Learning" community outreach events in July to help families learn about Voluntary Prekindergarten and the importance of early learning in preparing children for kindergarten success.

"Kindergarten readiness starts before the first day of school," said Teresa M. Rizzo, executive director of the Flagler County Education Foundation. "These events are an opportunity for families to learn what VPK offers, meet local providers and get help taking the next step toward enrollment."

High-quality early childhood programs have been linked to measurable long-term benefits for children and communities. In the HighScope Perry Preschool Project, a landmark longitudinal study of an early education program, researchers found that 66% of participants graduated from high school compared with 45% of those who did not participate. The study also reported that 36% of program participants owned a home by adulthood compared with 13% of nonparticipants, and that participants had fewer arrests, including for drug-related crimes, over time. These findings are among the reasons early learning advocates emphasize that kindergarten readiness begins well before the first day of school.

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The first event will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 11, at GW Carver Gym, 206 East Drain St., Bunnell. The second event will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 18, at Hidden Trails Community Center, 6108 Mahogany Blvd., Bunnell.

At both events, families will be able to meet private VPK providers, learn about Flagler Schools VPK options, access resources for parents with children from birth to 5 years old, and receive assistance with VPK registration. Kona Ice will be on-site.

More information is available at https://launchtolearning.org/.

About the Flagler County Education Foundation

The Flagler County Education Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the educational experience for all students in Flagler County through impactful programs, strong partnerships, and community support. The Foundation works alongside Flagler Schools, local businesses, and community leaders to help provide resources that strengthen classrooms, support educators, and expand opportunities for student success. Through fundraising, grants, and collaborative initiatives, the Foundation helps ensure students have the tools and support they need to learn, grow, and thrive.