Fight Crime: Invest In Kids

Fight Crime: Invest In Kids (Added: June 18, 2009)

One program at Jackson State University promises to keep kids in school and off the streets. (more)

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By: Heather Burke | WJTV
Published: June 18, 2009

Thursday morning at the State Capitol, Jackson law enforcement leaders who are involved in the program "Fight Crime: Invest In Kids"---came together to talk about a new report that shows how early childhood programs help keep kids in school and out of crime.
According to the report, last year about 75% of 3-year-olds in Mississippi were not enrolled in an early childhood education program.
That's why the organization is asking U.S. Senator Thad Cochran to help increase funding for "Head Start", "Early Head Start" and other early childhood development programs.
Another program geared towards keeping kids in school is a program called "Kids Kollege" at Jackson State University.
"I know that some colleges expect low standards, but me...I expect to aim higher than low...I want to be as advanced as possible," said 14-year-old Dylan Rivers.
One of dozens of children this summer in "Kids Kollege".
A program that helps disadvantaged kids get a quality education.
Summer coordinator Chloe Garth-Elkins says about 99% of the children in the program get their high school diploma and go on to college.
"It's a great opportunity for children to excel," said Garth-Elkins. "To inspire to those greater heights in order to become contributing members of society."
And for kids like Rivers, help make their dreams a reality.
"When I graduate I'm going to have it all with me. Not just a little bit, not just some of it, I'm going to come full strength."