The Robbinsville Public School District cut ceremonial ribbons on its universal pre-K program on Aug. 29, welcoming local dignitaries, parents, students and other community members.
Celebrations took place at both pre-K locations: Sharon Elementary School and Pond Road Middle School.
“This initiative presents an exciting opportunity for the district’s youngest learners and will undoubtedly benefit the entire community,” said a school district news release. “
Beginning this school year, the district will offer an integrated preschool program to serve children between the ages of 3-4. To qualify, a child must be three years old but not five years old by Oct. 1, 2024, and a resident of Robbinsville.
The program will accommodate up to 210 students, supported by 14 teachers, 14 instructional assistants, two preschool instructional coaches/interventional and referral specialists and one community and parent involvement specialist.
“We very much look forward to seeing our preschool students embark on their educational journey in the Robbinsville Public Schools,” said Interim Schools Superintendent Jeff Gorman.
The state earmarked $2.8 million for Robbinsville’s full-day pre-kindergarten program. Funds have been used to retrofit buildings to accommodate early childhood education, provide training, develop curriculum and purchase furniture, supplies and other necessities for the 14 designated classrooms.
School officials say the program will receive ongoing state funding each budget year. It will be of no cost to the school district or to families who have children enrolled in pre-K.
The program, which follows the district’s school calendar, will run five days per week with full-day sessions from 9:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. The program will take place in available classroom space at Sharon and Pond Road.
Preschool students with disabilities and non-disabled preschoolers will join together in an inclusive classroom where language, academic and social skills will be developed in a nurturing environment.
Community member can follow the preschool program on Instagram: @robbinsvillepreschool.
