Studer Community Institute and Sacred Heart Hospital's Early Steps will be recognized as advocates of early learning by WSRE.

The effort is part of the national PBS campaign "American Graduate." It includes a four-hour broadcast from 1 to 5 p.m. spotlighting individuals and nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping youth stay on track to high school graduation.

Just prior to and immediately following the broadcast, WSRE will premiere videos recognizing Early Steps and SCI as local “American Graduate Champions” who advocate for early learning and providing children with a solid foundation for improved academic and social outcomes in the local community.

Here's the SCI spot:

These locally produced American Graduate “Stories of Champions” can also be viewed online at wsre.org/AmericanGraduate.

The Institute is being recognized for its work in research and awareness of the importance of kindergarten readiness and early brain development on student achievement.

Kindergarten readiness is one of 16 metrics in the Institute's Pensacola Metro Dashboard, designed to gauge the educational, economic and social well-being of a community.

Operating under the Children Medical Services, Early Steps provides services from birth to age 3 for children with developmental disabilities, regardless of income.

In Escambia County, a staff of 20 serves more than 600 children. Eligibility is determined through a screening process. Early Steps coordinate with community agencies and other providers for the delivery of needed supports and services.

Hosted by former CNN anchor Soledad O'Brien, the national broadcast will explore the power of mentorship through half-hour long segments on the following topics: Early Education, More and Better Learning, Special Needs Communities, STEAM, Dropout Prevention and Re-Engagement, and College and Career Readiness. Celebrity guests include Gen. and Mrs. Colin Powell, Shaquille O'Neal, Dolly Parton and Rachel Platten.

The national “American Graduate: Let’s Make It Happen” campaign uses the power and reach of public media to share community-based solutions helping communities across America improve graduation rates as well as college and career preparedness.

The overall goal is to reach a national graduation rate of 90 percent by 2020.