More preschool places in Ravenswood district More preschool places in Ravenswood district (February 01, 2006)

Starting in February, 40 more 4-year-olds in East Palo Alto and the Ravenswood School District will be able to attend preschool, thanks to the "Preschool for All" program sponsored by First 5 San Mateo County.

First 5 expanded its program east of Bayshore after a recent supply-and-demand study showed that East Palo Alto only meets the needs of 29 percent of its preschool-age children.

"We know high-quality preschool experiences can produce a lifetime of benefits," said Tammy Moss, executive director of First 5 San Mateo County. "By expanding our preschool programs in areas that need it most, we are providing more children with the chance to thrive in school and in life."

Eligible children must be 4 years old as of December 1, 2005, and must live within the Ravenswood School District or the Redwood City School District. Family income is not a factor.

The pilot program is funded by First 5 programs in California, San Mateo County, and the David and Lucile Packard Foundation.

First 5's money comes from the 50-cents-per-package cigarette tax passed by California voters in 1998 to support programs for expectant parents and children up to age 5.

So far, First 5 San Mateo County has spent $46 million of cigarette tax revenues for programs and services in the county.

For information on applying, contact the San Mateo County Office of Education PFA hotline at 802-8345, or go to smcoe.k12.ca.us.

For information on the supply and demand study or First 5 San Mateo County, call 371-9500 or go to first5sanmateo.org.

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