Ask PIRC Staff...

Q: What does it mean to have children entering school ready to learn?

A: When children feel safe at home, in school and in their neighborhoods, they are ready to learn. When children are upset, they cannot learn. It also means that children are well-cared for: they have plenty of sleep, are dressed correctly for the weather, have breakfast either at school or at home and arrive at school on time with the school supplies they will need for the day. Being ready to learn is knowing how to behave, how to listen, using manners and having respect for people and property.

This is a lot to ask of children at age five. However, families have 5 years to get their children ready. Many people help families in teaching these needed skills to children. Children learn from everyone they meet, but mostly from parents. Churches, childcare providers, community centers, neighbors, playmates and family all support children in getting ready to learn.

Q: How can students of all abilities succeed at learning?

A: The US Government has passed a new bill called "Leave No Child Behind".

"No Child" includes children with learning delays, physical disabilities, all cultures, all religions, and all economic levels. The new bill is designed to give parents a report card on the performance of their child's school. If a school is in the inner city or in a poorer neighborhood, it must give children the same quality of education they could receive in any school anywhere in the city. The report card will tell families how their school is functioning and what needs improvement. If the school has not successfully improved within three years, families will be given the choice of moving their child to another school that offers better services.