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First Things First: Mother and Preschooler Program

IRC First Things First is an educational program for refugee mothers and their preschool children.  Classes are held at Marshall Elementary School in Room B40 and B42, Monday thru Thursday from 9 A.M. to 12.  The goal of First Things First is to teach refugee women how to read, write and speak English and prepare young children for success in the American school system.  Our students are Somali, Sudanese, Ethiopian, and Eritrean. 

What are the advantages of attending First Things First?

• Free Child Care allows mothers to attend class for 3 hours a day.
• Small class sizes maximize the students opportunity to practice speaking in class.  First Things First has 1 Teacher for 15 students, whereas the community college provides 1 Teacher for 40+ students. 
• Children will be more successful in school because First Things First helps children learn English, math, and literacy skills.  Children will grow accustomed to classroom routines and know what is expected from teachers in the United States.    

First Things First offers:

• English as a Second Language & Life Skills: Students learn about employment, education, health, parenting, financial literacy, and how to get help in their new community.

• Preschool & Childcare: Children have an opportunity to learn English, socialize with others and prepare for kindergarten.

• Educational Field Trips: FREE!  Refugee women have the opportunity to visit other areas of San Diego.

• Home Visits: Are you interested in learning more about parenting in the United States?  Sign up for our home visit program!  You are your child’s FIRST and MOST IMPORTANT teacher.  Yes, you!  Contact IRC First Things First to learn more about successful parenting in the United States. 

• Student Advocacy: Our staff can help you with making appointments, receiving help from community organizations, reading your mail, and much more!

For more information about First Things First and how you can enroll, please contact:

Colleen Krause
Program Manager, Community & Family Strengthening
International Rescue Committee
5348 University Avenue, Suite 205B
San Diego, CA 92105
Phone: (619) 641-7510, ext. 242  
FAX:    (619) 641-7520
E-mail:  ColleenK@theirc.org

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Find out more about the First Things First Program

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