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A brand-new program for kids developed during the COVID-19 pandemic is gearing up to make a huge difference for the new class of Kindergarteners getting ready for the 2021-2022 school year in Louisiana.

The Waterford Upstart Summer Learning Path program was put together by the good-hearted folks at Waterford.org to help kids struggling to learn during the very trying times of the pandemic - especially when it comes to children preparing to enter school for the very first time.  Now, that program is seeking 500 Louisiana families with future kindergarteners to enroll in the program.  Those selected will be given the tools to access the program as well - namely free laptops and internet service.

According to WGNO, the program's intent is to get these little ones acclimated to learning and prepare them for the demands of classwork (yes, even in Kindergarten).  The goal is to make sure every participant is at or above the "intermediate" learning level.  The program, which also provides the family with a reading coach, reportedly only takes about 20 minutes a day - which is key to keeping them engaged.  The lessons provided by the program are also presented as games that your child will enjoy.

I'm still a bit away, as my daughter is 3. But, you better believe we will be throwing our name in the hat for her in 2023!  To be considered for the program, parents should sign up right away.  If you think your soon-to-be-Kindergartener could benefit from it, get the details and application here.

KEEP READING: 50 activities to keep kids busy this summer

KEEP READING: Here are the most popular baby names in every state

Using March 2019 data from the Social Security Administration, Stacker compiled a list of the most popular names in each of the 50 states and Washington D.C., according to their 2018 SSA rankings. The top five boy names and top five girl names are listed for each state, as well as the number of babies born in 2018 with that name. Historically common names like Michael only made the top five in three states, while the less common name Harper ranks in the top five for 22 states.

Curious what names are trending in your home state? Keep reading to see if your name made the top five -- or to find inspiration for naming your baby.

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