Lewiston, Idaho – Last summer, 72 students graduated from Twin County United Way’s annual Kindergarten Bootcamp – including one group of students from Lapwai Elementary School. It was the first time the five-week summer program was able to staff a classroom in Lapwai, an expansion that was made possible partly by a grant from the Avista Foundation.
2022 was the first year the program was offered in Lapwai.
“I’ve enjoyed getting the chance to work with our incoming kindergarteners,” said
Krystle Stamper, Lapwai Elementary teacher at graduation last year. “Every day was an opportunity to help them learn how to be well-rounded kiddos who will become the leaders of their respective classes during the coming year.” She added that the young students in the summer bootcamp program grew by “leaps and bounds” in their letters, numbers, and classroom expectations. “I look forward to seeing their continued work,” Stamper said.
Kindergarten readiness is a very important part of setting a young student up for success. The goal of this program is to make sure kindergarteners are as prepared for school as possible, and to help those who may be behind on learning to catch up before starting school. Several studies show that students who fall behind their peers in kindergarten have a greater chance of remaining behind and not completing their education.
The young students in the bootcamp program made remarkable progress by graduation: 45 percent had improved recognizing letters by 40 percent or more; in Lapwai, 40 percent improved their ability to recognize numbers 1-10 by at least 50 percent.
Twin County United Way is a nonprofit organization that raises money to fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in Asotin and Nez Perce counties. The programs are made possible by community donations and grants, Kindergarten Bootcamp classrooms in Lapwai and Asotin will return this summer.
At Avista, we recognize our unique position gives us the chance to contribute in an impactful way and make a real difference in people’s lives. Since 2002, the Avista Foundation has made grants totaling over $13 million to organizations that support vulnerable and limited income populations, education, and economic and cultural vitality. The foundation is a separate, non-profit organization established by Avista Corp., and does not receive funding from Avista Utilities’ customers through rates. For more information on grant applications and geographical areas covered, please visit avistafoundation.com.