The Education Foundation of Indian River County is pleased to announce that the Jaffe Family Foundation has awarded a gift of $30,000 to support the STEP (Summer Transition Enrichment Program) into Kindergarten program for summer 2021.

The intention of the Jaffe Family Foundation is that this substantial gift will allow the Education Foundation to impact the greatest number of children possible through this research-based program. STEP into Kindergarten is a collaborative effort between the Education Foundation of Indian River County and the School District of Indian River County, with local funders supporting the program through grant and gift awards.

The purpose of the program is to increase Kindergarten readiness rates for 4- and 5-year-old children by extending the school year through a comprehensive summer program. Children who have completed a Voluntary Pre-K program are eligible to participate in the program which runs from June through July. Priority is given to students identified as homeless or migrant, and those students residing in school zones with the highest poverty rates.

This research and evidence based program began in 2014 as a pilot program funded by the John’s Island Community Service League. Since that time, the program has become a proven model for increasing the social and emotional skills of 4- and 5-year-old children. Early reading, math, and science enrichment are also cornerstones of the program. In addition, parent engagement is increased through various family activities.

To learn more about STEP into Kindergarten, visit http://www.edfoundationirc.org. The Education Foundation of Indian River County’s mission is to fund school programs and services that support opportunities for students to achieve academic success Pre-K through 12th grades.