High-Quality Preschools Expanding in Ottawa County
Holland, MI- Ten additional high-quality free and low-cost preschools through the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) are accepting applications for this school year to help ensure all children in the Ottawaarea are kindergarten-ready.
“Thanks to expansions to Michigan’s Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP), Ottawa County GSRP is able to provide more families with greater early education options for their children,” Tami Mannes, PhD., Director of Early Childhood Services for OAISD, said. “All GSRP classrooms are staffed by highly qualified teachers with Early Childhood degrees and follow Michigan Childcare Licensing guidelines for health and safety to provide a fantastic learning experience for our students.”
Many families qualify for GSRP alleviating financial worries for many families.
For example, families with four members who earn up to $120,00/year are now eligible for free preschool through GSRP. By filling out a short online application, we can help families find the best fit for them
“Attending a high-quality preschool gives children a boost in early skills that sets them up for success in elementary school and beyond,” Patty Beatty, Assistant Director of Preschool Programs for OAISD, said. “Preschool helps children develop social-emotional skills such as understanding the feelings of others, controlling their own feelings and behaviors, and getting along with others.”
Half-day and full-day GSRP preschool options are available. Some locations offer wrap-around child care and bussing and many programs have Spanish-speaking instructors.
Some newly added GSRP classrooms across the area still have spots available.
The Great Start Readiness Program is funded through a grant from the Michigan Department of Education. Children who are 4 years old on or before December 1, 2023, and meet the program requirements are eligible for enrollment for the 2023-2024 school year.
Find and fill out an application for free or low-cost preschool at www.helpmegrowottawa.org. Help Me Grow Ottawa connects families with young children, ages birth to five years old with free local resources and programs to support your child’s development. English and Spanish-speaking HMG coordinators are available via phone or text at 844-233-2244.
Ottawa Area Intermediate School District works collaboratively with schools and communities to meet the educational needs of students of all ages in the Ottawa area. By pooling resources and providing services regionally, the OAISD provides important programs and services to local K‐12 school districts and all charter, parochial and private schools in the most cost‐effective ways possible. To learn more about OAISD visit www.oaisd.org
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