Anacortes is honored to have received a major grant from the Gates Foundation to establish connections and outreach with the youngest children in our district, those who have yet to enter the doors of our schools!  Virtually every study done shows that money spent on the first five years of educating children saves many dollars later in numerous ways. 

The grant was renewed for a second year with the premise that the district and the community would be willing to invest financially and with activity support.  Now in its third year, the program is funded partly by the district. but that funding is in jeopardy for next year, with big cuts coming in other areas from the state.  We need your help to continue these essential programs!

ASF has established three funds which target the essentials of Early Learning.

• Childcare and Preschool grants: grants that would go to children in need. The grant will permit these children to attend a quality childcare and preschool program to help promote and encourage their kindergarten readiness skills .
• Reach Out and Read: Literacy program where doctors provide books at well child visits for children from 6 months to 5 years of age and encourages parents to read with their child each day.
• Family Programs and Professional Development: This fund will help support family events such as preschool math, science and reading events, literacy fairs and other family oriented educational events. This fund will also allow childcare and preschool providers to apply for grants to assist with professional development growth opportunities such as attending conferences and classes. 

Donations to the Early Learning Fund or any of its components are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law.  Checks made out to the Anacortes Schools Foundation  should mention "Early Learning Fund" and , if desired, specify the program.  Send donations to ASF, 2200 M Ave., Anacortes, WAs 98221, and you will receive a prompt acknowledgement for your tax records.  Help our early learners now!