This community program, which helps children build early, foundational literacy skills and prepare for school, is funded in part by a grant from the Solcz Family Foundation.
October 21, 2025 – Windsor, ON — Families in Windsor-Essex will soon have access to a new, research-based early learning opportunity designed to help preschoolers build early literacy skills, confidence, and classroom readiness before starting Kindergarten.
In partnership with Strong Start® Charitable Organization and funded in part by a grant from the Solcz Family Foundation, Ready-Set-Go! Windsor is bringing the acclaimed Get Ready for School™ program to the community in January 2026.
Strong Start’s Get Ready for School is a research-based program for preschoolers in the six months before entering Year 1 Kindergarten, offered to qualifying families at no charge. Over the course of 44 classes, children build vocabulary, learn letter-sounds, and practise classroom behaviours such as taking turns and following instructions. The program is particularly beneficial for children who are learning English as an additional language or come from low- to middle- families.
Two program options will be offered:
- 2 afternoons per week: January 13 – June 18, 2026
- 3 afternoons per week: February 2 – June 5, 2026
“Every child deserves the opportunity to start school ready to learn, explore, and thrive,” says Machelle Denison, CEO of Strong Start. “Through our valued partnership with Ready-Set-Go! and with funding from the Solcz Family Foundation, we’re helping children in Windsor-Essex build a strong foundation in reading, and in life.”
“At Ready-Set-Go!, we believe in empowering families and preparing children for success right from the start,” adds Tina Etzl, Director of Ready-Set-Go! Windsor. “The Get Ready for School program aligns perfectly with our mission to strengthen families and uplift the community. We’re thrilled to bring this opportunity to children and families.”
Applications open November 3, 2025, at 10:00am EST. Children born in 2022 are eligible to .
Families can learn more and apply at strongstart.ca/programs/get-ready-for-school/.
In addition to family enrollment, Strong Start and Ready-Set-Go! invite community members to apply for paid Classroom Lead and paid Instructor positions. Volunteer positions are also available. All roles receive comprehensive training from Strong Start® and can support children at a critical stage in their development while gaining quality, practical experience. It’s a rewarding way to give back and help strengthen the community.
To learn more, visit strongstart.ca/about/join-our-team
About Ready-Set-Go! Windsor
Ready, Set, Go! partners with families of young children (from birth to age six) in Windsor’s downtown core and West end to build connections, overcome barriers, and promote healthy, resilient families. Its mission is to inspire parents and caregivers to celebrate their community while sharing the responsibility of raising thriving children. Learn more at readysetgowindsor.org.
About Strong Start® Charitable Organization
Strong Start® is a Canadian literacy charity helping children learn to read and reach their full potential. For nearly 25 years, our evidence-based programs (including Letters, Sounds and Words™, Get Ready for School™, and Baby Connections®) have helped more than 64,000 children build literacy skills and confidence. Delivered free of charge through community partnerships with schools, educators, and volunteers, Strong Start programs have proven impact with measurable results. Learn more at strongstart.ca.
About the Solcz Family Foundation
The Solcz Family Foundation was established in 2016 by the late Michael G. Solcz and his late wife, Doreen, their four sons and their families. The Solcz Family Foundation is committed to improving the welfare of the Windsor-Essex community with a focus on supporting projects and programs that provide opportunities for children, youth and families. www.solczfamilyfoundation.com
