Arlington early intervention teacher Diane McCutcheon had a problem. The kids in her school weren’t ready for kindergarten—but it wasn’t about the three Rs.
In order to learn, kids first need to be able listen, teachers said. They need to be able to make friends, to follow directions in a group and to control their anger.
“There’s this whole foundation of social skills that
is critical before the academics come. Kids will learn—if they have this foundation,” Diane said.
Kindergarten teachers statewide agree: 43 percent of children are entering school socially and developmentally behind. Those students are more likely to stay behind—and less likely to graduate.
So Diane looked at the work United Way’s Success By 6® initiative was doing with nearby child care centers. She knew she’d found a solution.
Parents and teachers use the DECA Program to assess each child. Success By 6 then provides the training, support and tools child care professionals and parents need to help kids grow strong—from the inside out.
Diane showed the program to Presidents Elementary principal Connie Reid. They got so excited, they got the whole town of Arlington involved.
Under Connie’s leadership, counselors, therapists, teachers, childcare providers, hospital staff—even the mayor—all came together to form the Arlington School Readiness Coalition.
Working with United Way’s Kristi Reardon, they introduced Success By 6 supported training and tools throughout the school district and at 19 child care centers. Parents were given tips to use at home. Kids responded.
The result? More than one-third of children tested showed significant improvement in their ability to form attachments, control their behavior and take the initiative.
“What we’re seeing as a benefit is kids entering school more prepared... and actually enjoying school,” said Connie. “It’s helping them be successful not only in school, but in life. This is a tool we need to get in parents’ hands.”
Pretty soon, the whole town was talking. And the news spread.
Today, Success By 6 is working with kids at 54 sites, including seven school districts. And, Arlington proudly calls itself a “Success By 6 Community,” affirming their commitment to give every child the best possible start in life.
United Way. Because partnerships matter.