It’s time for Pre-K registration!  Each year around this time, Selma City Schools has registration for any incoming 4-year olds whose family is seeking high-quality early learning.  This year is no exception.

As you may know, at our January meeting, the Selma City Schools board of education voted to close Cedar Park and Byrd First Class Early Learning Center. Cedar Park students and staff will move to Edgewood and our First Class Early Learning Center will be relocated within another school in our district.  Regardless of the location, let’s be clear, Pre-K is important and will continue to thrive in our school district.

First Class is Alabama’s voluntary Pre-K program.  It is part of the Office of School Readiness within the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education. First Class Pre-K provides effective, high-quality early childhood experiences that prepare Alabama’s children for school success and lifelong learning.     

Our Pre-K program is governed by the Office of School Readiness.  We know that high-quality Pre-K matters as it prepares our youngest scholars to have enthusiasm for learning while also supporting age-appropriate communication and problem-solving skills.  Pre-K also helps improve children’s ability to function in a social setting.   Additionally, it promotes age-appropriate physical and emotional skills and optimal health. 

Our Pre-K program at Byrd has been nationally recognized.  We are proud to continue the tradition within our district by providing this valuable community resource.  I encourage families to pre-register this spring. Pre-registration is open now until March 28. 

Simply go to our website selmacityschools.org and follow the “Register for Pre-K today” tab.  Eligible children must turn 4 on or before Sept. 1.  Children must also be residents of Selma and provide proof of residency.

Registration will continue after the pre-registration period.  Information regarding the location of our Pre-K classes will be provided in the coming weeks. 

In the meantime, be assured that high-quality early learning will continue in the Selma City Schools.  We are excited about creating the Selma City Schools First Class Early Learning Center!  As locations are being considered, feel free to email me with suggestions. 

We are currently considering having classes at one location at either Clark or Sophia P. Kingston or two sites at other schools.  Pre-K is an important part of the learning process and it will continue to thrive in our district.  Team Selma is committed to excellence in early learning!

For more information, email me at avis.williams@selmacityschools.org.