Applications are now being accepted for a new category within the 2012 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards called the Early Childhood Award. It was specifically created to support public or private schools or nonprofit learning agencies that focus on the care and education of children under age 5.
The purpose of the award is to offer support to help create or enhance Kinder Readiness programs that prepare children to enter Kindergarten socially and academically ready to learn. Applications from across the state will be reviewed and five regional finalists will be selected and then presented with a check for $5,000 to apply towards the enhancement of existing Kinder Readiness activities or creating new programs for the target population.
In Texas, almost one third of the state’s children entering the first grade are living in poverty while one in four Texas preschool children are not read to regularly.
“We strongly encourage those who work with our youngest learners at schools and other agencies to apply for the Early Childhood Award,” said Kate Rogers, H-E-B vice president of communication and engagement. “Every year, we visit schools all throughout Texas to see many outstanding teachers implementing innovative and exciting programs and practices that engage their students in learning. We look forward to discovering the wonderful things that early childhood educators are doing in their classrooms.”
The overall statewide winner will be announced at the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards ceremony May 6, 2012 in Houston and awarded an additional $25,000 grant. To apply, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Demonstrate both a passion and a historical commitment to offering quality early childhood education and care in the community.
- Be successful in preparing students to enter Kindergarten both socially and academically ready to learn.
- Exhibit innovation and creativity in the classroom or program setting.
Applications will be accepted through midnight Jan. 6, 2012. To complete an online application, visit www.heb.com/education.