The Cherokee County School District is continuing to accept applications for two of its preschool centers for next school year.
Ralph Bunche Center in Canton and Johnston Preschool Center at Johnston Elementary School in Woodstock both have openings in the federally funded Head Start Program. This program provides free preschool to children ages 3 and 4 (by Sept. 1, 2020) whose families meet income eligibility requirements. Head Start students also all receive breakfast and lunch at no charge as part of their school day.
The preschool centers follow the same calendar as all other CCSD schools; parents drop-off and pick-up on a car-rider schedule similar to elementary schools. Both preschool centers also serve students in Bright from the Start preschool, the application period for which is now closed, and special education preschool programs.
Through Head Start preschool, children enjoy a full day of learning and fun in a class led by a certified teacher with a paraprofessional assistant. There are separate classes for children who are 3 years old and children who are 4. Preschoolers prepare for kindergarten with lessons on shapes, colors, letter and numbers; art, music and science hands-on activities; and learn to use a computer and tablet. Learning through play is an important part of every day with indoor centers and outdoor playground time, as is developing routines and understanding how to make friends and cooperate with others.
The application is online at https://www.cherokeek12.net/Content2/district-forms in English and Spanish. For more information, please email CCSD Head Start Family Partner Jo Morris at Ralph Bunche at jo.morris@cherokeek12.net or Ludi Allen at Johnston ludi.allen@cherokeek12.net.