State Funded Preschool...Free Preschool For Qualified Families
Young children learn most effectively when they are engaged in an environment where teacher-child, child-child and child-environment interactions are all at high levels. Learning is an active process where knowledge is constructed as well as acquired.

The curriculum and instructional strategies are based on developmentally appropriate practice for young children. These strategies provide a balance of child-initiated and teacher-initiated activities, which enhance the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development of each child.

The staff believe in a warm, nurturing environment that provides children physical and psychological safety. Teachers and parents working as a team provide the learning experiences and models which foster positive attitudes and dispositions toward learning.

The State-funded Preschool recognizes the importance of a continuing evaluation system assessing and reviewing the progress, performance, and development of children, personnel, and overall program.

Funding
This program is completely dependent on funding provided through the Michigan Department of Education (MDE).  We may receive full funding, partial funding, or no funding.  Children will be enrolled based on funding and the child’s eligibility for the program.

Classes
This program is to provide a preschool experience for children at-risk for school failure. Two classes are available:

• One class runs Monday through Thursday from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m.

• One class runs Monday through Thursday from 12:20 to 3:20 p.m.

Classes meet for 30 weeks. Children are served a healthy lunch from school food service at the beginning of class each day.

Parent involvement is an important part of our program. Parents are requested to volunteer in our program at least once a month.

Classes are taught by a certified teacher, an assistant and an aide. Classes are limited to 18 students.

Eligibility
To be eligible for these classes a child must be turning 4 years old on or before December 1, 2011. Children must be toilet-trained. To be in a state-funded class, a child and family must have at least two (2) documented risk factors, which will be determined during the interview..

Application
To apply to this program, please complete an application request form. Return it to the Early Childhood Center with:

• A copy of your child’s birth certificate.

• A copy of your child’s updated immunization record.

• A copy of your family’s last month’s pay stubs.

When all paperwork has been completed and returned you will be contacted for an interview.

Return application and information to:

State-funded Preschool
Early Childhood Center
310 N. Warren
South Lyon, MI  48178     
Phone:  248-573-8330