In the early 1990s, teachers noticed that children in poverty entered kindergarten or grade one lacking many social, language, and learning skills. Sometimes their educational opportunities were minimal, their health jeopardized, and their self esteem low. As a result, these students were behind before they even got started.

In 1991, four fully-funded preschools were formed at King George, Pleasant Hill, Princess Alexandra, and Westmount Community Schools. Funding came from the province, service clubs, professional associations, churches, and individuals.