Mission Statement    

 The mission of the Prekindergarten Program is to provide initial learning experiences to effectively help children develop and maintain the basic skills necessary for successful school performance.

  

Application Criteria   

Families may apply for Prekindergarten for the 2012-2013 school year if your child is four years old by September 1, 2012 and meets the following criteria:     

• meets the income guidelines set by the US Department of Agriculture for free and reduced meals   

  • no above income families will be enrolled or placed on a waiting list for Prekindergarten  

     

• registered with the Homeless Office   

• demonstrates develomental delays or is at risk for developmental delays as identified by an IEP placement    

Registration   

Prekindergarten registration is scheduled at boundary schools from April 16th through June 1st.  After June 1st, parents can apply for prekindergarten at any elementary school on a space-available basis.  Transportation will only be provided to students attending their boundary elementary schools.  

The Prekindergarten program will be half-day with morning and afternoon sessions.  Sessions are assigned once the application is completed.  

Program Components     

• An adult-child ratio of 1:10, with an average group size of 20     
• Presentation of instruction through the Houghton Mifflin Pre-K Reading and Harcourt Mathematics Materials     
• Instruction based on developmentally appropriate indicators in the standards of the Voluntary State Curriculum     
• Hands-on active learning experiences     
• Large group, small group, and individual interactions     
• Transportation     
• Field Trips     
• School-Home Communications     

 MSDE Frequently Asked Questions by Parents and Families-Prekindergarten