Bright From The Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning Lyn Steed University of West Georgia

Georgia’s Pre-K Program  Established in 1993, serving 750 at-risk children.  By 1995, enrollment was 44,000 and opened to all eligible 4-year olds.  Private/public partnership allows over 74,000 children served each year.  Provides a smooth transition from Pre-K to Kindergarten.

Essentials for School Readiness  Children are physically healthy, rested and well-nourished.  Children are able to communicate needs, wants, and thoughts verbally.  Children are enthusiastic and curious in approaching new activities.

Components of Pre-K  Play and learning centers  Understand how children learn  Active learning Consistent daily routines  Positive behavioral management  Assessment strategies  Provide appropriate experiences emphasizing growth language and literacy, math concepts, science, social studies, arts, health, physical development and social and emotional competence.

Variety of School Settings  Public/private elementary schools  Public/private secondary schools  Post secondary campus  Learning centers (profit and non-profit)  Head Start  Hospitals  Military bases  YMCA/YWCA

Georgia Pre-K  Variety of Curriculum Choices  Offered free to all 4 years old with birthday by Sept. 1  6.5 hour instructional day, 5 days a week, 180 days a year.  Each class must have a lead teacher (certified &degreed) and one trained assistant.

Georgia Pre-K  Classrooms clearly arranged in defined learning areas.  All learning areas are equipped to provide children opportunities to explore, manipulative, investigate and discover.  Have appropriate daily routine  Facility meets child/staff ratio  Provides an environment and instruction that promotes language development.

Kindergarten Readiness  Practice morning routines (moment of silence, pledge)  Raising hand to answer questions  Practice carrying cafeteria trays  Learn to open milk cartons and straws  Learn to open condiment packets  Practice walking in a line  Answer roll call  Practice getting on and off a bus

Kindergarten Readiness  Practice checking out library books  Listen to read aloud books  Learn to sharpen a pencil  Practice working in groups and with a partner.  Practice packing and unpacking book bag.