MADISON – For consideration in initial selection, families must pre-register for Madison City Schools’ First Class Pre-Kindergarten and Early Beginnings programs by March 15.

Staff will add pre-registration requests received after March 15 to a waiting list. Pre-registration must include birth certificate and proof of residency by deed or rental contract, along with a copy of a utility bill. The child must reside in the City of Madison.

Acceptance into pre-kindergarten is handled strictly by random drawing, scheduled for March 27, 2024, at 9 a.m. during Madison Board of Education’s meeting, available by livestream. To view Limestream, visit madisoncity.k12al.us, and click the “Our District” dropdown menu and “Board of Education.” Then, click “Board Meeting Livestream.”

The staff will email notices (or mail letters) of acceptance by April 18. The child must be four years old by Sept. 1, 2024. Tuition is income-based on a sliding scale.

Pre-kindergarten students report to West Madison Pre-K Center at 4976 Wall Triana. Their school day covers 7:50 a.m. to 2:20 p.m. Bus transportation is not available.

After check-in for the day, pre-kindergartners have a morning meeting, read-aloud session, music and movement and time in a learning center until dismissing for recess from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Another time for read-aloud starts at 10:40 a.m., followed by 15 minutes in small groups.

The students clean up for lunch at 11:15 a.m. and have recess from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. After a bathroom break and cool-down time, the children take naps from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m.

After napping, they have a snack. Their closing activity and last round of read-aloud lasts from 2:05 to 2:15 p.m. Students in after-school care are dismissed at 2:15 p.m., followed by car riders at 2:20 p.m.

In a learning center, children realize the concept of ‘safe place’ to feel and handle big emotions. Their play, or “work of childhood,” can involve building blocks, dramatic play, art, math, shapes/colors, alphabet, science, writing and the sensory table for experimenting (Dr. Jean’s Website, modified for MCS PreK).

For more information, email snphillips@madisoncity.k12.al.us or melissa.mims@madisconcity.k12.al.us. Visit madisoncity.k12.al.us, and click the “Academics” dropdown menu. Then, click “Preschool.” In the list to the left, click “First Class Pre-K.”

Another classroom program, Early Beginnings Preschool accommodates students with and without disabilities. Three-year-olds are eligible if the child qualifies for a disability and for special education services; otherwise, the child must be four years old by Sept. 1. The child must live in Madison.

Students in Early Beginnings attend Mill Creek and Rainbow elementary schools from 7:40 a.m. to 2:10 p.m. The staff will notify parents about acceptance by April 18. For more information, email jndrake@madisoncity.k12.al.us.

Pre-registration for the HIPPY program, or Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters, is open until May 31. HIPPY promotes home-based, parental involvement for preschool students with and without disabilities. For an application form, visit madisoncity.k12.al.us. For more information, email snwilliams@madisoncity.k12.al.us.