WHO WE ARE
Excel By 5 is a community-based certification designed to improve a child’s overall well-being by age five. The first-of-its-kind in the United States, this program emphasizes the important roles communities play in educating their children during their most formative years - from birth to age five.
In 2007, Petal became Mississippi’s first certified Excel By 5 community, serving as a model for other communities through innovative programs and partnerships.
Donations to support Petal Excel By 5 can be made through the Petal Education Foundation.
OUR MISSION
The mission of Petal Excel By 5 is to support families with children ages 0-5 by encouraging community-based collaborations to draw upon research-based best practices to use and enhance existing resources to optimize the care and education of young children by preparing them to enter school happy, healthy and with the skills they need to succeed.
OUR HISTORY
Excel By 5 is a community-based certification designed to improve a child’s overall well-being by age five. The first-of-its-kind in the United States, this program emphasizes the important roles communities play in educating their children during their most formative years - from birth to age five.
Initially funded with a grant from Chevron, Excel By 5 is currently working with thirty-eight communities throughout the state of Mississippi.
PETAL EXCEL BY 5
Mississippi's First Early Childhood Community
