Early Childhood Education

For our youngest learners

Early childhood education (ECE) at BCPS includes a focus on early literacy to prepare students with the foundational skills they need for their learning and lives. Starting with basic letters and sounds all the way through recognizing and writing words, we work to give our youngest learners a jump start into literacy. ECE programs include pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, and the summer Kindergarten Success Program. All early childhood education students also gain access to the Raising a Reader Program, a family engagement initiative that encourages families to read and learn together. Families who enroll receive free books weekly.

Enroll

Pre-Kindergarten (GSRP)

We are proud to offer free pre-kindergarten (GSRP) to our BCPS family. Your child must be 4 years old on or before September 1 to enroll. Enrollment is open from March through August 2020. Enroll today.

If you have any questions, contact the Office of Early Learning at (269) 965-9478.

Our pre-K program includes:

Play-based learning for essentials like colors, letters, numbers, fine motor skills and more.
Full day preschool (Monday–Thursday) at Dudley STEM, Fremont International Academy, LaMora Park, Post-Franklin and Valley View.
31 weeks of instruction
Limited busing available
Free breakfast and lunch served daily
Certified teachers with a specialty in early childhood education
Quality curriculum
Field trips
Ratio of 6 children to 1 adult

Kindergarten

Kindergarten enrollment for the current school year is open. Your child must have turned 5 years old before September 1, 2019 to be eligible for kindergarten. Enrollment for the 2020–21 school year will open in April.

To find out which school your child will attend, use our school finder tool. Enroll today.

Kindergarten at BCPS includes:

Laser focus on reading and literacy to set each student up for a lifetime of learning
New, high-quality curriculum
12:1 student to adult ratio with literacy tutors in every class
Educating the “whole child” with True Success Character Education and social-emotional support
Bilingual support staff in every building
Free breakfast and lunch for every student, every day
Chromebooks in every classroom
Outdoor Education Center programs
Before- and after-school programming

Kindergarten Success Program

The Kindergarten Success Program (KSP) is a free, five-week, full-day kindergarten preparation summer program at Post-Franklin Elementary, open to all incoming BCPS Kindergarteners. Transportation is included.

It’s important that all children learn the foundational skills that will set them up for success before entering kindergarten. This program is packed with fun learning by certified instructors to enrich and engage your child. Take advantage of this opportunity to help your child start kindergarten ready to thrive!

Contact Chandra Youngblood to enroll: (269) 965-9478 cyoungbl@battlecreekpublicschools.org.

Note that your child must be enrolled as a kindergarten student in BCPS for the 2020-2021 school year in order to qualify for KSP. Enroll in kindergarten here.

The program includes:

Free, five-week, full-day program (8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., five days per week)
Extended care available from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., five days per week
Transportation, meals, snacks and supplies provided
Games, lessons and art projects will enrich skills like colors, letters, numbers, sharing and motor skills