The Issue:

My children, along with thousands of other keiki, have thrived because of the Tutu and Me Travel Preschool in Waialua. For many years, this program, under the guidance of the Partners in Development Foundation (PIDF), has been a beacon of hope and opportunity for countless families, providing a nurturing and educational environment for our youngest learners. The potential closure of this vital program threatens to rob future generations of the early childhood education they deserve.

Many families in Waialua and surrounding communities have relied on Tutu and Me for its commitment to nurturing our keiki's growth and development. This mobile preschool model is specifically designed to reach communities where early childhood education options are limited. By bringing the classroom to us, Tutu and Me not only offers high-quality education but also strengthens family bonds by encouraging parental involvement in our children's learning process.

The impact of early childhood education cannot be overstated. Studies have demonstrated that children who attend preschool have improved academic performance, better social skills, and increased opportunities for future success. Furthermore, early education helps bridge the gap for children from low-income families, offering them a chance at equal footing with their peers. It's clear that the benefits of programs like Tutu and Me extend far beyond the classroom.

Due to growing uncertainty around federal funding that supports early childhood programs across Hawaiʻi, the future of Tutu and Me in Waialua is now at risk. We need the support of local authorities, private foundations, and the general public to ensure this program continues to serve our children and families for years to come. 

Please join me in urging decision-makers to provide the necessary funding to keep PIDF Tutu and Me Travel Preschool operating in Waialua. Your signature can help demonstrate the immense local support for this program and highlight its critical importance to our community. Let's come together to ensure that all keiki have access to the best possible start in life. Sign this petition today and make a difference for our children's future.