Young children in Perry will be getting some aid in preparing for school this year thanks to the Iowa Public Television (IPTV) “Ready for School” initiative.

The program provides educational specialists to work with educators, parents, child care providers, and community partners to implement Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) and literacy-based activities for kids age 2-6. IPTV hopes to use technology and media to spark kids’ curiosity and get them excited about learning. They will provide access to educational media resources, including online games, instruction materials, and activities to get children ready to succeed when they start school.

The is the sixth year of the “Ready for School” initiative, and Perry is one of thirteen communities selected to participate this year. Since being created, the program has been deployed at over 100 other Iowa communities.