"PNC Grow Up Great " focuses on mathematics instruction.  It seeks to enhance math curriculum content, increase teacher's opportunities for professional development, help parents partner with classroom teachers with home activities that mirror what is learned in school, and ultimately to positively impact the math outcomes for children.

 Beverly Lynn , former Executive Director of Newark Preschool Council, Inc., announced the receipt of a PNC Foundation "Growing Up Great" Award, as part of PNC's  one hundred million dollar initiative to enhance the learning skills of Head Start Children.  The award, in the amount of $39,000, was based on a highly competitive process.  The funds will enable the agency to focus on the development of math skills for over 500 preschool children participating in the agency's Head Start program.  Approximately thirty classrooms will be involved in the effort.

The agency selected Jo Ann Joseph, Education Supervisor for the agency, to implement and manage the project.  Ms. Joseph has extensive experiences as an educator and received her MS in Early Childhood Education from Bank Street College , one of the nation's most respected institutions for early childhood education.  Carolyn Brown , Education Manager for the agency, will work closely with Ms. Joseph to ensure the success of the project.

Teacher training will be provided by Creative Curriculum and Creative Curriculum materials will be used in the project.

"We are very pleased to be the recipient of this grant because we recognize the importance of comprehensive early mathematics instruction and its positive effects on preschoolers," state Ms. Lynn.  She went on to say, "Any opportunity to enhance the learning skills of our children is welcomed and appreciated.  We are especially excited about the award from the PNC Foundation because it was a competitive process."