Illinois

Jumpstart programs are made possible with the help of volunteers from local colleges and the community, who serve in a variety of preschool settings in underserved communities such as Head Start programs, community based classrooms, and public school pre-K. Each member of our volunteer “Corps” undergoes extensive training before entering the classroom, as well as ongoing coaching throughout the school year to ensure the highest quality program is consistently implemented. Click here to learn more about our program.

COLLEGE CORPS

Jumpstart partners with universities and colleges to recruit college students to serve in preschool classrooms in underserved communities.  Our College Corps program offers students a chance to work alongside likeminded peers, receive high-quality training in early childhood development and education, and gain invaluable hands-on experience in the classroom, all while giving back to the local community. Jumpstart is a great opportunity for students who are interested in education, looking for a work-study opportunity, or simply love spending time with children. Click here to learn more about Jumpstart Corps members.

Students who participate can make an impact on educational equity while potentially earning funds to help pay for their college education through Federal Work Study or a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award (depending on where they serve).

Jumpstart Family Home Learning Connection

Jumpstart’s Family Involvement Kits are a resource provided at no cost to families of preschool children participating in our program. The kits inform parents and caregivers about the importance of early literacy for their preschool child and provide additional activities to do at home that supplement concepts the preschool child is learning in class through Jumpstart’s curriculum.