The Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) program concluded last week with four meetings at schools across the district to congratulate parents on completing the year-long program. More than 1,800 parents and children from 50-plus school communities attended the four events to receive certificates of completion, and went home with literacy materials and activities to keep the kids learning throughout the summer.

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Over the school year, HIPPY Home Instructors visited parents enrolled in the program each week to demonstrate instructional activities for 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds. The parents then practiced the activities with their children, preparing them for academic success. Children whose parents participate in the free program consistently outperform their peers on standardized tests in the early grades.

“My son has learned so much and I am so grateful. I have really seen him advance – now he speaks more fluently and has a larger vocabulary. We’ve had so many experiences in the HIPPY program that I will never forget,” said HIPPY mother Lourdes Ramirez of her experience.

If you are interested in becoming a HIPPY Home Instructor, call 713-556-7290.