In her classroom, Tanescha Wilks, a certified early childhood educator, sees the difference that quality early education makes in a child’s life, so when she learned about PHLpreK, the City’s free quality pre-K program, she knew she had to enroll her own twins.
“I’m so happy with the program and I encourage all families to enroll in PHLpreK,” Tanescha said. Prior to PHLpreK, her two children had been enrolled at a non-PHLpreK family child care program. “At first I was worried because my son had some behavior issues and I didn’t know if they were ready for a more rigorous school environment,” Tanescha explained.
Fortunately, she found that the classroom setting of Diversified Community Services, one of over 86 PHLpreK programs across the city, did wonders for her children’s development.
“My kids know all the colors, and their grammar and vocabulary are off the charts,” Tanescha shared proudly. “They often use 4-syllable words that I’m shocked they know the meaning of. They went on so many fun field trips and loved their teachers. I encourage all families to enroll in PHLpreK.”