Affording preschool for their children is becoming increasingly more difficult for families on Orcas Island. Preschool provides an environment where children have many opportunities to be part of a community of peers, learn social skills, and experience many enriching learning opportunities. Research continues to show that children who attend preschool are more likely to graduate from high school, stay out of jail and off drugs. Here at Orcas Montessori, with the help of a grant from United Way, we were able to help a family this past year make tuition affordable. The benefits to our children and families are far reaching. The growth and development made by the children within our community of peers and dedicated teachers over the course of a year is rewarding to observe.

Our tuition assistance, ECEAP, United Way funds and work study programs make preschool possible for seventy five percent of our families. Community support helps us keep our door open to all families on the island. Community donations to the United Way make it possible for them to assist many island programs. This community spirit enriches all of us and models those values for our children that will serve them well in their own lives as they become the future citizens of our community. Please make your donation to the United Way during their annual fund raising drive; during these tough economic times your support is needed more than ever!

Board of Directors and Staff at Orcas Montessori School