Attending a pre-K program allows young children to get a head start on learning. The Georgia lottery pre-K system provides these classes for free to eligible kids. If you want to enroll your child, you should understand the process and take the right steps to navigate the application successfully. Here are answers to some common questions that parents have about this process.

What You Should Know About the Georgia Lottery Pre-K System

Which kids are eligible?

Children must be a resident of the state to be eligible. They must also be a certain age at the time of enrollment. Only children aged 4 years old on September 1st of the upcoming school year are eligible for the Georgia lottery pre-K program, as older kids should start attending kindergarten and grade school. 

What do I need to enroll my child?

The first step is establishing proof of residence with either a utility bill, bank statement, or other document that lists your name and address. To prove the age requirement, you will need to provide the child's birth certificate, record of live birth, passport, or other official documentation.

Also, prepare your child's dental, vision, and medical records in case they are accepted. This information is necessary to obtain the Certificate of Vision, Hearing, Dental and Nutrition Screening, which the child's pediatrician must sign before they can attend pre-K.

Who offers pre-K programs within Georgia?

Public schools in the state provide pre-K lessons to eligible children. However, the space for these classes is often limited, so private preschool programs may also participate. Georgia lottery pre-K sessions usually last for about six to seven hours to simulate a normal school day. Child care before and after school may also be available. 

What are the benefits?

School readiness is a major component of academic achievement. Pre-K programs prepare kids for interacting with their peers in a school setting. They also establish early academic skills, such as reading and language comprehension. Most importantly, these programs help detect potential learning issues or limitations so that you can address them before school begins.

If your child is accepted into the Georgia lottery pre-K program, contact Cherokee Academy at Clayton in Canton. Since 2004, they have been dedicated to early childhood education and enrichment. They also foster curiosity, self-confidence, and self-esteem in kids to help them tackle obstacles and prepare for school. Visit the website to learn more about their pre-K programs. Call (770) 479-4404 to schedule a tour of the school.