Founder of Juneteenth Has an Inspiring Message for Tarrant County Parents.

The Go Early Go Forward Campaign has a simple mission. We want every three and four-year-old to be enrolled in Pre-K. We aim to connect parents and caregivers with all of the resources necessary to help their child Go Early and Go Forward with confidence.

Widely known as the "Grandmother of Juneteenth," Opal Lee’s efforts to make Juneteenth a national holiday has inspired millions of Americans. Before she became a beloved icon for social justice, Opal Lee was first and foremost a teacher and counselor for Fort Worth ISD—someone who dedicated her life to educating and empowering the next generation of leaders. She is an embodiment of our mission and a strong voice within the community.

It’s hard to let go. It’s a big decision on where they go. Are they ready? Opal Lee has a strong message to send them, they’re ready. 

Tarrant County early learning settings are designed based on research in early childhood education, focusing on developmentally appropriate practices. These programs aim to nurture various facets of a child's growth—social, emotional, cognitive, and physical—without imposing undue academic pressure. 

In pre-K, children engage in activities that foster cognitive, social, and emotional growth. They develop crucial social skills, enhance language capabilities through exposure to rich environments, stimulate cognitive development with age-appropriate puzzles, games, and activities, refine fine and gross motor skills through play. These types of lessons encourage independence and self-regulation, explore creativity and imagination through art projects, lay the foundation for early literacy and numeracy skills, and establish emotional well-being by learning to identify and express feelings within a supportive environment. 

Public early learning educators within Tarrant County are engaged and involved teachers who create a supportive atmosphere where students feel seen, heard, and valued.

Your child was born to learn, and in a blink of an eye, they will grow into an independent and curious explorer who is eager to embark on new adventures. 

Watch the full interview with Ms. Lee: https://youtu.be/2CicVVzAEXI?si=aD0qeOG31Yj5DPUF