What is Starting Strong Rapid City?
Starting Strong Rapid City is a
- market-based,
- parent-driven,
- voluntary
Parents of eligible children can choose a quality preschool from among approved programs that provide transportation, nutrition, and highly qualified teachers.
Launch Event-
May 1, 2012
7:30 am – 9:00am
Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn.
Raising Awareness & Scholarship funds!
RSVP: 721-0699
Programs like Starting Strong provide the foundation for:
- School readiness,
- Positive attitudes toward education,
- Less need for remedial and special education services in schools,
- Fewer problems with truancy and delinquency,
- Higher graduation rates,
- Higher earnings and success later in life.
Starting Strong Rapid City is now providing scholarships for 3-year olds for enrollment in September 2012! Call 342-6464.
Early Education is Economic Development
Early Education pays huge dividends! 
Studies show the return on investment for education is greatest during the preschool years. More than $7 (and as much as $17) in public funds are saved for every $1 spent on high quality programs like starting strong.
Research finds that when tested at ages 8, 10, and 14, children from disadvantaged backgrounds who were enrolled in quality pre-kindergarten programs achieved at higher levels than those who weren’t. Former preschool students graduate from high school at significantly higher rates than non-participants and they earn more in later life.
