Education is the first step to improving quality of life
Education is the cornerstone of individual and community success. However, with more than 32,000 children in Denton County at-risk of dropping out each year, district growth far out-pacing district funding, and an estimated 9000 children in need of quality pre-school education, our community faces an education crisis. These students can succeed, but only when our community works together, bringing our non-profit organizations, our governments, and our neighbors to the table.
Education is the key to getting a good job - one that pays a living wage and provides health benefits - and education is the key to Denton County's economic productivity and global competitiveness.That’s why United Way of Denton County wants your gift, your time, and your help to ensure that all children in Denton County receive the pre-school care, the high school diploma, and the chance to advance they deserve.
Pre-Kindergarten Coalition
In response to needs outlined in our updated Community Assets & Needs Assessment, the City of Denton, Denton Independent School District, and United Way of Denton County created Denton County's first Pre-K Coalition. In conjunction with hundreds of concerned community members, Denton County's Pre-K Coalition is organizing community resources to increase kindergarten readiness, provide equal access to parent resources, and promote lifelong learning and success.
Click here to learn more about Denton County's Pre-K Coalition.
Sanger Impact Grant
Students in Sanger Independent School District have a tireless advocate in their district's homeless liaison, Valerie Foster. Under her supervision, Sanger children in need receive backpacks of school supplies, new clothes, and full stomachs. Through community impact funding, United Way of Denton County is supporting and expanding this valuable community resource so that it can improve lives in our community.
Adult ESL
Students learn languages faster when their parents can help, and families can break a cycle of poverty simply by learning English. Parents who speak English are able to find well-paying jobs more easily and better involve themselves in both their child's education and their community. With support from United Way of Denton County, Communities In Schools of North Texas runs English as a Second Language classes for adults with children in Denton County school districts, better enabling them to help our community with their talents and skills.
A grant from the Texas Education Agency’s 21st-Century Community Learning Center funds this program which began in the 2011-2012 school year.