EDUCATION

Engaging families to prepare their children for success

WHEDco’s early childhood education and youth development programs expose Bronx children to a range of life experiences that prepare them for success.  We believe that a holistic approach to education, where a student’s mind, body and artistic spirit are nourished and enriched, helps children and youth reach their potential.

Early Childhood: WHEDco’s nationally accredited Urban Horizons Early Childhood Discovery Center, a Head Start program, serves 104 pre-school children from 18 countries. The program offers a nurturing environment that prepares children for school and engages parents in their education. Our family support services include adult literacy classes, counseling, and access to job opportunities.

Research demonstrates that investing in high-performing early childhood education can help close the educational achievement gap for disadvantaged children. Root Cause, a nonprofit research firm, recently identified WHEDco as one of seven top school readiness programs in New York State.

Youth Development: WHEDco provides opportunities for 1,000 students annually to have the kinds of life experiences that prepare them for success as adults. Our award-winning After School Program serves students in Kindergarten through 8^th grade with arts and academic enrichment, our Project STEP program helps middle school students become community leaders and attend competitive high schools, and our student-led JAM Program empowers teens to teach sexual education to their peers.