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Pre-Kindergarten Program - FAQ
When can you apply for Pre-K?
Application for pre-k begins in May. After applying you will be notified if your
child qualified and is accepted into the program. Once classes are filled, qualified
students are placed on the waiting list.
Where do you apply for Pre-K classes?
Application for pre-k classes are made at the pre-k location that you would like
your child to attend.
How old does your child have to be in order to apply for a Pre-K program?
Your child must be four on or before September 30.
What are the guidelines, curriculum, and assessments for Pre-K?
Hamilton County will provide an appropriate, research-based educational curriculum,
aligned with the Tennessee Early Childhood Education Early Learning Developmental
Standards. The pre-k programs use ”Opening the World of Learning” as the designated
curriculum. (See pages 13-18 for description of curriculum and assessments.)
How many children are in a classroom?
Each classroom has a maximum of 20 students, with one teacher and one teaching assistant.
Each pre-k teacher in all programs are certified teachers and all pre-k staff are
employees of the Hamilton County School System.
Is Pre-K an all day program?
Yes, students are to attend for 6.5 hours (one hour for rest time and 5.5 hours
of instructional time). Pre-kindergarten programs follow the Hamilton County Department
of Education calendar. Hardy operates on a year round calendar. The pre-k program
is NOT a drop in, part time program.
What is free or reduced lunch?
Free or reduced lunch is the National School Lunch Program that is intended to direct
benefits to those children most in need. The guidelines are revised annually to
account for changes in the Consumer Price Index.
Is there a waiting list to get my child into Pre-K?
Yes, you can be put on the school’s waiting list, if there are no slots available
at the site. You must complete all required paperwork.
Is there transportation for Pre-K?
No, parents are asked to transport their child to and from their pre-k site each
day. Upon arrival and dismissal, parents (or designated adult) MUST sign their child
in and out each day. Students can ride the bus for field trips.
Will my child stay at the same school when they attend kindergarten?
Upon entrance into kindergarten, parents whose children attend a pre-kindergarten
program must register their child at their zoned school for kindergarten.
