“Education is the foundation upon which we build our future.” – Christine Gregoire
And early childhood education is the foundation upon which a child’s entire academic career is built.
We are fortunate in our community to have strong school districts that provide quality programs in the area of early childhood education. Those early years are essential in giving a child a good start along the road to lifelong learning!
Preschool is much more than “babysitting.” Dedicated professionals work closely with young children to develop curiosity, self-expression and creativity; develop problem-solving skills; increase the child’s attention span; introduce concepts to build a foundation for reading and math; and improve language development and communication skills.
In addition, a quality preschool program provides opportunities for a child to develop social skills, such as sharing and helping; and builds self-esteem, self-confidence, independence and responsibility.
Most of all, children who attend preschool will begin kindergarten with an advantage that continues, year after year, throughout the child’s educational experience.
Preschool and kindergarten registration are open weekdays, March 20 through April 2, at all public elementary schools in Owensboro and Daviess County.
Children must be 5 years old by Oct. 1, 2015, to register for kindergarten (birthday must be on or before Oct. 1, 2010). Parents have the option of waiting until the child is 6 by Oct. 1, 2015, to enroll in kindergarten.
Children must be 4 years old by Aug. 1, 2015, to qualify for the 4-year-old income eligibility program (birthday must be on or before Aug. 1, 2011).
Children must be 3 years old by Aug. 1, 2015, to qualify for the Head Start program (birthday must be on or before Aug. 1, 2012).
Children with a delay or disability may enter preschool upon their third birthday.
Preschool is offered in morning and afternoon sessions, Monday through Thursday each week. (Fee-based preschool programs are available for children who do not meet income or delay/disability eligibility requirements.)
Free bus transportation is provided. Breakfast and lunch are also available. For more information, call Daviess County Public Schools at (270) 852-7000; Owensboro Public Schools/Hager Preschool at (270) 686-1125; or visit your neighborhood elementary school.