Preparing today’s youth for tomorrow’s world

SAN LUIS, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - One San Luis program is showing the community the importance of early childhood development programs by showing what goes on within the four walls of there classrooms.

San Luis Preschool serves 71 students, and has a long list of children waiting to get into the program.

The school is more than just a daycare, it's where children begin their education and prepare for kindergarten and beyond.

According to First Things First, 90% of brain development happens before children start kindergarten. That's why experts believe in starter programs like First Things First.

The program is pushing for more investments to be able to provide learning opportunities to more kids throughout Yuma County.

A lack of funding for preschools is preventing more children in the community to benefit from these programs.

With the U.S. Census coming up, advocating for San Luis residents to be counted is a top priority to help get more of these programs. First Things First's director explains that if children are not counted in this year's U.S. Census than that means less funding coming to Yuma.

A majority of the students that start preschool in San Luis come in not knowing any English. It poses as a barrier for them, but as they continue through the school year they are no longer considered English Language Learners and are able to keep up with curriculum needed to move on.

For more information on First Things First program click HERE.