Enrollment
How to Select a Program
Once you’ve applied and know which program funding source your family is eligible for (Head Start, Great Start Readiness Program, or KC Ready 4s) you’ll be able to choose from a list of participating programs. So, how do you choose?
Location: Do you prefer having a program located close to home? Close to work? Close to a childcare provider?
Transportation: Are you able to deliver & pick up your child daily or do you need transportation?
Childcare: Do you have other children needing childcare and would like them at the same place? Do you need childcare for your 4-year-old before or after the pre-K portion of the day?
Half Day vs. Full Day: Do you have a flexible schedule or need to work around your work schedule?
Cost: Can you afford a program without assistance from one of the Kalamazoo County Pre-K funding partners or do you need to be approved for funding first?
We also encourage you to contact programs to schedule a tour of the facility. This is one of the best ways for you to determine if the program meets the needs of your family.
(from an article posted by the Harvard Graduate School of Education):
1. Adults talk to children in nurturing and encouraging ways.
2. When children are behaving inappropriately, teachers focus on helping them.
3. The classroom is fun and joyful.
4. Children are active.
5. Staff are supported — and seem happy.
