Time of the essence for Florida Pre-K program

Sunday, February 27, 2005

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Results have shown Pre-K program students are well prepared for kindergarten.

Time is running out for Florida to launch universal Pre-K programs.

It would give state-funded pre-kindergarten to any parents who want it for their 4-year-old children. But will the statewide effort be organized in time?

A Pre-K program has been in existence for many years at Bay Crest Elementary, which has one of 45 classrooms in Hillsborough County's School Readiness program. But now Universal Pre-K is going statewide.

The future of the program is uncertain.

Zoe Thwaites teaches 25 preschoolers during the week. Her classroom is part of the Hillsborough County School Readiness program. One her principal is proud to be a part of.

"When they enter kindergarten, they are 10 steps ahead of children who have not had this experience," Bay Crest Principal Susan Parks said.

To register your child for Universal Pre-K, or if you are a provider, click here for more information.