Anson County Partnership for Children is accepting applications for N.C. Pre-K, a kindergarten readiness initiative that some say is proven to help four year-olds gain basic skills needed for success in elementary school. Children who are four years of age before Aug. 31 are eligible to apply for this program, which is free to qualifying families.
A high priority is placed on serving children who meet the following criteria: the child’s family is at or below 75 percent of the state median income level; a disability has been identified; and they limited English proficiency, developmental differences, chronic health conditions, or a parent who is active military service personnel.
N.C. Pre-K classes operate on a regular school calendar and are designed to address emotional and social development, physical health, language development, and cognitive functioning. Through the incorporation of indoor and outdoor learning environments, students participate in active learning experiences intended to foster a lifetime love of learning.
There are currently four centers operating N.C. Pre-K classes in Anson County. These classes are located at Anson Children’s Center, Central Center for Children and Families, Morven Elementary School, and Open Doors Center for Children.
“Availability in this program is limited,” Caroline Goins, executive director of the Anson County Partnership for Children, said. “If parents are interested in enrolling a child in the N.C. Pre-K program, I encourage them to act quickly.”
An article published by Princeton University, stated that “… early childhood programs can produce large short-term benefits for children on intelligence quotient (IQ) and sizable long-term effects on school achievement, grade retention, placement in special education, and social adjustment.”
Parents or guardians interested in learning more about the N.C. Pre-K program should contact Karen Gerald at 704-694-4036 (ext. 105) or karen.gerald@ansonchildren.org. Applications are available in the Partnership’s Early Childhood Resource Center located at 117 South Greene Street, Wadesboro from 1 to 5 p.m. or online at ansonchildren.org.
Alexandra Harrington is the early childhood resource center coordinator for the Anson County Partnership for Children.