The Lee Pesky Learning Center has received a $50,000 grant from the Laura Moore Cunningham Foundation, Inc., to create inclusive early childhood environments.
In addition to being a leader in early childhood education statewide, Lee Pesky Learning Center—a 501c3 education nonprofit—provides evidence-based services including dyslexia training for teachers, literacy instruction for English learners, and 1:1 intervention.
At present, Idaho ranks 50th out of 51 states in the number of students enrolled in early education and 40th in terms of resources for early education. The combination of low enrollment in early education environments coupled with limited resources prompts concern for the total number of Idaho’s children attaining basic literacy and kindergarten preparedness skills.
Funding provided by the Laura Moore Cunningham Foundation (LMCF) will allow LPLC to reach more early childhood educators with a focus on inclusion and multilingual professional development opportunities. Last year, support from LMCF, alongside other funding partners allowed LPLC to serve 13 school districts, train over 850 educators, conduct 20 multi-day trainings, and hold over 250 coaching sessions.
The organization was founded in Ketchum by Wendy and Alan Pesky and continues to have a presence in the Wood River Valley.