Does Alabama have free pre-K?

The First Class Pre-K Program is Alabama’s state funded voluntary program for 4 year old children who are residents of the State of Alabama. In order to receive funds for a First Class Pre-K Classroom, organizations must first complete an online application.

Is preschool required in Alabama?

Thursday, the Alabama House of Representatives passed legislation requiring that all parents enroll their children in kindergarten. House Bill 423 is sponsored by State Rep. Pebblin Warren, D-Tuskegee. Warren said that under current law kindergarten is not required.

What age is preschool in Alabama?

At ages three- and four, children may be eligible to enroll in pre-Kindergarten, or “pre-K,” programs, both private and public.

How much does pre-k cost in Alabama?

What is the cost for the Alabama First Class Pre-K Program? Tuition ranges from $0 to $300 per month and is determined by a sliding fee scale. The sliding fee scale is based on the annual 2019 Health & Human Services Federal Poverty Guidelines and Levels.

Can a 4-year-old start kindergarten in Alabama?

The code states that a child must be “five years of age on or before September 1 or the date on which school begins in the enrolling district” in order to enroll in his or her local public school kindergarten.

What is early childhood education?

Early childhood education is a broad term used to describe any type of educational program that serves children in their preschool years, before they are old enough to enter kindergarten.

Can you start a 4-year-old in kindergarten?

Students must be between the age of 4 and 6. Minimum age for kindergarten entrance is 4 years 7 months before the first day of the school year. Kindergarten entrance age is 5 on or before September 1 for 5-year-old kindergarten, or age 4 on or before September 1 for 4-year-old kindergarten.

Is the first class pre-K program in Alabama funded?

The First Class Pre-K Program is Alabama’s state funded voluntary program for 4 year old children who are residents of the State of Alabama. The program is funded by the Education Trust Fund and the Preschool Development Grant through the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education (DECE) Office of School Readiness (OSR).

When to apply for first class in Alabama?

Alabama’s nationally recognized First Class Pre-K is preparing for another exciting school year! Online pre-registration applications for the 2021-2022 school year may be submitted beginning January 15, 2021 . See the flyer and your local program for details.

How to get funding for first class pre-K?

In order to receive funds for a First Class Pre-K Classroom, organizations must first complete an online application. First Class Pre-K has been recognized by the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) as meeting 10 of 10 criteria for the highest quality Pre-K programs.

How is Early Childhood Education funded in Alabama?

The program is funded by the Education Trust Fund and the Preschool Development Grant through the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education (DECE) Office of School Readiness (OSR). In order to receive funds for a First Class Pre-K Classroom, organizations must first complete an online application.