First Step Preschool's story is prevalent in low-income rural communities in South Mississippi. Research shows that 27.7% of Mississippi children younger than 18 years live in households below the poverty level. Parents in these rural areas often struggle to find affordable, quality options that meet their specific needs and spend far more than 7 percent of their annual (less than $43,412) family income on childcare.

 

Due to the low-income threshold in rural communities in Mississippi, many parents—particularly single women—are constrained by the lack of options available for their young children while they work. These restraints often produce barriers to educational opportunities and better-paying jobs. Resulting in these mothers being chained to the government system of welfare. This disparity ensures that these families may never rise above poverty without support. Without quality early childcare options, they are left to depend on family members and friends who can often be unreliable.

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 My Story

I was a teenage mother of twins from a low-income community in the early '80s, I overcame the odds that usually surround single mothers during that day and earned not only a high school diploma but 5 advanced degrees including a Doctorate. Although my story is not uncommon, It does allow me to have a better perspective of the struggles that single mothers face, one of understanding and motivation.  I understand their hopes, dreams, and fears.  I also know what could be accomplished with support and encouragement.  

 

One of the biggest worries for parents is the health and safety of their child(ren).  Early childhood programs like First Steps Preschool, will be the solution for many families.  At First Steps Preschool, we focus on ensuring positive learning experiences along with developing a child's social and emotional growth,  physical development, academic experiences, and creative play.

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Partnering with community resources like Right Choice Learning Center, Bright Steps Therapy, Right Choice Educational Consultants, and S&T Small Kids Learning Center allows us to build a stronger community. 

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