Parents of preschoolers now have an exciting new option for pre-k schooling in Bradford.
After a competitive application process, the Bradford YMCA Early Learning Center in partnership with IU9 has been granted approval and funding for Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts. This educational program is an initiative established in 2007 by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Office of Child Development and Early Learning. The goal of Pre-K Counts is to ensure children will be ready for school and achieve success in kindergarten. “The YMCA is ecstatic to offer this program through our Early Learning Center”, says Stacie Titus, Bradford YMCA Executive Director. “As a STAR4 Center, Pre-K Counts will continue to grow our program and ensure we are offering high quality care to the children in our community.”
Pre-K Counts is a free program for families that qualify. The Bradford Early Learning Center will be holding registration sessions on Monday, 9/20/21, from 10 a.m.- 11:30 am and 3 p.m.- 4:30 p.m. Application packets will be available and staff will be on hand to answer questions. Parents must provide proof of income, a birth certificate showing their child is 3 years old as of Sept. 1, 2021, a copy of immunization records as well as a physical exam and dental form filled out by the child’s health care providers. Those that are unable to attend the session times can pick up a packet at the Bradford YMCA front desk. Completed applications must be returned with necessary documentation by Sept. 20. Acceptance phone calls will be made by Wednesday, Sept. 22 and classes will begin on Oct. 4.
“The Pre-K Counts Program for 3 year olds is a much needed and welcomed opportunity for our community”, notes Kira Schine, Associate Child Care Director of the Bradford YMCA Early Learning Center. “Children who are enrolled in early childhood programs have greater success in the classroom long term. This program will allow for the YMCA Early Learning Center to offer education to non-school aged children and prepare them for transition into school. We are so excited to serve our community in this new way.”
Pre-K Counts will run Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will also be Wraparound Child Care Plans available before and after school, scheduled days off of school and for summer break. That care will be provided Monday through Friday as early as 6:20 a.m. and as late as 6 p.m. For more information please contact Kira Schine at 814-368-1610 or by email at KiraS@TwinTiersYMCA.org. Updated information will be posted on the website as well at twintiersymca.org.
