Project WoW Grant Encourages Arts, Science and Innovation in Preschoolers

Preparing our youngest students to learn provides a foundation for future success and helps them develop important skills such as self-discipline, persistence and cooperation–skills that are essential to their future success and a quality workforce.

Consider the facts:

• Eighty-five percent of brain growth occurs by the time a child is three.
• Participants in early childhood learning programs are 80 percent more likely to attend college.
• High quality early childhood education programs increase employability by 23 percent
• Adults who attended early childhood programs earn 33 percent higher average salaries.

In one of the most impressive partnerships this year, Florida Chamber member PNC Foundation has awarded $400,000 to the Orlando Science Center and the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts for their new program: Project WoW (World of Wonder).

According to a Dr. Phillips Center press release:

The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and the Orlando Science Center (OSC) will partner on a three-year grant to launch Project WoW – “World of Wonder” for 4-year-olds, their families and teachers in Orlando. Project WoW enhances access to arts and sciences for hundreds of pre-k students and their families through classroom and home activities, support of teachers through training and mentors along with special family events at the two centers.

We commend PNC, OSC and the Dr. Phillips Center for their commitment to early learning education and we wish them luck in their new endeavor.

At the Florida Chamber, we continually advocate for programs and initiatives that strengthen the future of our state. Early learning, the literal foundation for life-long learning, is an investment that must not be taken lightly.

Florida’s global competitiveness depends on a quality education system, and for us, this commitment must begin early. This is why the Florida Chamber foundation has created the Business Alliance for Early Learning. Businesses from around the state will tackle a number of issues impacting children ages 0-8. Join us as we engage businesses, families and community leaders in securing Florida’s future through quality early education.

To participate in a Business Alliance conference call or for more information, sign up here or email us at tlowe@flfoundation.org.