My name is Abigail Marshall and I have four daughters who have frequented events hosted by Alabama Public Television, our local PBS station, at our local library. My second daughter struggled to read and had no desire to further her abilities until attending a program hosted by Diane Landers. Mrs. Landers expressed how to combine learning through PBS streamed episodes and finding those corresponding books in our local library. My daughter now is reading on an advanced 4th grade level at 8 years old! My children have absolutely loved every “class” we have attended and are forever grateful for the knowledge that has been extended to us!”

Abigail Marshall

PBS is the one of the EXTREMELY limited few engagement opportunities where my children have the opportunity to learn and grow in an education-and-compassion forward manner. Social and emotional skills, critical and process-oriented thinking, historical and civil enrichment, and practical education (like learning letters and numbers) are ALL supported by PBS and should be made available to all of our country’s children. There is a reason multiple PBS names and shows are household names in American households. They are a staple of our childhoods, and should not be ripped from the hands of underserved families who need it now more than ever. How can we claim to put America first while actively tying the hands of AMERICAN families and children? PBS serves as a fixture of the family foundation, to create closer bonds and children who understand themselves and the world around them much more clearly.

The work you do is important. It builds, and uplifts children and families in a way that does not take sides but emphasizes our uniqueness in a tapestry of neighbors that we do life alongside. PBS particularly reflects the world as it should be in a way children can understand and relate to. Horrid to think access to this will be impacted in any way.

Fight on. Compassion and education is our strength! Thank you for all that you do. #ProtectPublicMedia!

Kelley Crowley

As the parent of three children, I have witnessed firsthand the invaluable impact that these programs and activities have had on my family. The educational content and community events supported by the Ready-to-Learn Grant have provided meaningful learning experiences and enrichment that extend far beyond the classroom. These programs play a vital role in addressing educational gaps within our community, and their absence would be deeply felt. I sincerely hope that continued support will allow these important initiatives to remain available for the benefit of children and families across our state.

Rebbie Taylor-Jones

PBS has been a valuable resource for learning and training programs for young children as well as adults. The PBS program brings a wealth of educational awareness.

Connie Parks, Family Guidance Center of Alabama

Alabama Public Television has been a trusted resource in my work with child care providers and families across the state. Through the PBS program, they gain a wealth of knowledge that supports early learning, child development, and quality care. APT is more than television—it’s a lifeline of support, training, and connection for those who need it most.

Jessica Segrest

Alabama Public Television has been and currently provides training and resources for childcare providers and families across Alabama. APT offers quality training in the Alabama Early Learning Guidelines, First Teachers, School Readiness, Summer and After School Learning, and online Professional Development. In addition to the training, APT offers educational resources for workshops ( books, DVDs, guides, print materials, & kits). All of which are offered without cost to participants. To quote a colleague in the field: Alabama Public Television has been a trusted resource in my work with childcare providers….across the state.

Valerie Howell, Alabama Department of Human Resources

Alabama Public Television is influential in the lives of many people. As a partnering agency I can truly say that the trainings APT provide are not only educational, but they provide many wonderful books and other resources that are useful in the in the community.

Dionne Chancey

The benefits of Alabama Public Television and Public Broadcasting Systems are so vast. They offer families quality programming, interactive media, and reinforce learning ideas and concepts through their shows and websites. Families can view these stations without the fear of exposing themselves or children to inappropriate content. The educational benefits and support are much needed. Being able to provide necessary resources to early educators and the families they serve is priceless. Educational materials are not cheap. Being able to offer them free resources that support and expand children’s learning should be a top priority, not a byproduct. It is quite rewarding to provide early care professionals with media they can view with children, discuss the topics of the show, and then do hands activities to extend that knowledge even more. It has been a safe space for families and children throughout the years.

Sandi Prestage

PBS has consistently provided valuable research-based resources, particularly in the fields of literacy and language development. In the 30-plus years I’ve been working with teachers of children from birth to school, I have relied on PBS and Alabama Public Television to provide trusted information that supports early education and high-quality childcare. This information benefits children in ways that impact each child’s ability to succeed in school and in life.

Judy Davidson, Childcare Resource Network

Through their Ready-to-Learn Grant, APT has helped young people in Montevallo learn business skills that will follow them into adulthood and help them be great citizens and leaders. In addition, APT has added free-of-charge activities and games to numerous community events that bring families together making memories and spending time with each other. PBS is an important part of our community that we hope will continue to be funded.

Courtney Bennett, PCED