Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts

Providing high quality pre-kindergarten to thousands of young children across the Commonwealth Because every child is Pennsylvania's future.

Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts, established by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, is bringing quality half-day and full-day pre-kindergarten to 11,000, 3 and 4 year olds in Pennsylvania.

Why does my child need to attend a high quality pre-kindergarten program?

    Children who come to kindergarten without all the skills they need often stay behind and struggle in school. Quality pre-kindergarten prepares children for reading and math, but also for paying attention, following directions and getting along with others. Pre-kindergarten gives children a chance to learn, become excited about school and be better students.

    By enrolling your child in quality pre-kindergarten, your child has a better chance of being ready for kindergarten and grade school. This strong early start in pre-kindergarten means they have a better chance of doing well in school, going on to college or career training, and getting a good job. All of this can start by enrolling your child in a PA Pre-K Counts classroom!

What can I expect from a PA Pre-K Counts classroom?

    Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts classrooms will

    1. have teachers with the education and expertise to teach young children;
    2. use a curriculum that will help your child grow, academically and socially;
    3. regularly review your child's progress and choose teaching and learning activities that are best for your child;
    4. help you and your child adjust to pre-kindergarten and smoothly move on to kindergarten;
    5. offer a small class size (20 students per one teacher and one aide) so that your child can have plenty of one-on-one time with the teachers.

    By enrolling your child in PA Pre-K Counts, you can give your child a great start to a bright future.

Who is eligible for PA Pre-K Counts?

    PA Pre-K Counts is designed for children who

    • are between age 3 and until they enter kindergarten;
    • are at risk of school failure, either because of income (300% of the federal poverty level, or a family of four earning $61,950), language (English is not your first language), cultural or special needs issues.

    If your child falls into these categories, you may be eligible to apply.

How much does PA Pre-K Counts cost?

    PA Pre-K Counts is free to families.*

Who do I call to enroll my child in a PA Pre-K Counts classroom?

    Calvary Baptist Church Learning Center, Norristown 610-277-0257

    Crayon Kids, Norristown 610-275-3181

    Montgomery County Community College Children's Center,
    Blue Bell 215-641-6618

*The portion of the day that is funded through Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts is free to families; the program may charge for additional portions of the day (wrap-around care, etc.).

Classes will open as early as September! For more information visit www.pde.state.pa.us.

Logo Helping Pennsylvania's children reach their promise through Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts.