Spots are still available at select district locations for the free Great Start Readiness Program preschool.
Openings are available at Oakman, McCollough, Henry Ford, Salina and Cotter Early Childhood Center. An enrollment event is scheduled for Aug. 27 at Cotter, 13020 Osborn St., Dearborn. Parents should call the school at 313-827-6150 to schedule an appointment to complete enrollment.
GSRP classes start for the 2024-25 school year on Sept. 11.
To be eligible, children need to turn four years old by Dec. 1, 2024. Preference will be given to students who will be four by Sept. 1, 2024 because those students will qualify for kindergarten the following year. However, if space is available, the program also will accept students with birthdays between Sept. 1 and Dec. 1.
Historically, GSRP was available for families who met certain income criteria. As Michigan moves towards universal free preschool, eligibility requirements have been greatly relaxed. All interested families with a child the correct age are encouraged to apply. The state this summer raised the official income threshold to four times poverty, which means a family of four with an income of $140,400 a year, or $11,700 a month, now qualifies.
To apply, students must live with a parent or legal guardian within the Dearborn Public School District.
GSRP classes are generally 16 students with two adults. In Dearborn Public Schools, classrooms are led by a Michigan Early Childhood certified teacher and a parapro with a Child Development Associate Certification. Classes meet for a full school day from Monday through Thursday. Times vary slightly by building, but are similar to the elementary school schedule.
To learn more, parents can call Cotter School at 313-827-6150.
