There are many providers of pre-kindergarten programs in Manatee County.
Educators say Pre-K programs help build strong foundations for children for when they begin their education.
The Manatee County school district and private providers offer a range of programs for children starting at age 4.
Providers were evaluated on how their students perform in areas such as language, communication and emotional development.
Children are screened to see how prepared they are for kindergarten.
The school district administers free voluntary Pre-K programs to all Florida children who are 4 years old on or before September 1, 2008.
Parents can either enroll their children in a 540-hour program during the school year or the 300-hour program during summer.
Classes are three hours a day, and parents can pay some school sites $12 for their children to stay the whole day. Rides are not provided.
The district’s program is very competitive. If your child does not get a spot in a desired school, officials advise parents to either choose a different site, go to a private provider or keep the certificate of eligibility to be used in the 2009 summer program.
For information about Pre-K, call the school district’s early learning coordinator at (941) 708-8770, ext. 2243.
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