Almont to add Pre-K program this fall

Increased state funding will allow for an additional 20 students

 

ALMONT — During a time of uncertainty in what the future may hold, the Almont school board knows one thing for sure.

They are going to be able to add students in their Pre-K program.

Thanks to additional funding and a commitment to students just beginning their educational journey, the State of Michigan has increased their contributions to what was once known as the “GSRP” program, commonly called the early development program.

As a result, the Almont district is intending to add another class of Pre-K with the ability to take up to 20 students.

Officials say the added class will be an a.m. session and include children four years old.

“We’re pretty excited about this news and looking forward to letting our district parents know about the opportunity to bring more young children into our schools,” said Star Sutphin, a teacher and administrator of the program. “Basically, the children come and make new friends and we teach them school skills,” Sutphin added. “We do fine and gross motor skills, language, how to be around others, those sorts of things. Hands-on learning, social skills to be a part of a classroom, communication skills, early reading, math, and science skills, key life skills experience and developing curiosity”

Sutphin, who has 28 years under her belt in education, says the half-day program is free to those needing the services.

Supt. Kimberly VonHiltmayer said the district is thrilled to be able to add the extra class and says the district has ample space to house them. The program and Sutphin’s GSRP classroom benefitted from the $25,000 incentive grant this past year.

The Head Start preschool program was created to give children, ages three to five years old, a free early learning program that prepares them to be ready to succeed in school and later in life. Teaching takes place in a classroom within your community.

State officials said, “The early learning your child receives both at home and in preschool is important because 90% of a child’s brain develops by age five. Supporting early learning before starting kindergarten is vital for how your child’s brain develops.

Experts say a good preschool program helps your child want to learn more about their world. This builds their character and could spark a life-long love of learning.

Michigan’s GSRP PreKindergarten (PreK) program is ranked #1 nationally. The majority of Michigan 4-year-olds qualify for free! Programs follow a school year schedule with full day, part day and 4 and 5-day options.

A quality pre-kindergarten (PreK) experience sets your child up for success. It provides fun ways to learn concepts like early math, science, and literacy. It also helps them develop social and emotional skills in a place where all children can learn and grow together.

Michigan’s PreK for All initiative includes multiple free high-quality PreK programs available to families including the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) and Head Start.

Head Start enrollment priority is given to families at or below the federal poverty level or $32,150 for a family of four, or who are receiving public assistance like TANF, SSI, or SNAP. GSRP enrollment priority is given to those at or below 400% of the federal poverty limit, or about $128,000 for a family for four.

Children in Michigan who are three or four by either September 1st or December 1st are eligible, depending on your local school district.

The program is available for families who meet the income requirements. Parents are encouraged to check with your local ISD for details and how to apply.

What is Needed to Apply for Head Start? To apply, you will need:

• Your child’s birth certificate/proof of birth
• Immunization record
• Proof of residence (utility bill, lease, etc.)
• Verification of income (check stub, W2, tax return, DHS statement, etc.)
• Current physical/well child visit
• Current dental exam
• Guardianship or custody documents (if applicable).

To register for the Almont Pre-K program, you can call (248)736-1550.