The schools with pre-K programs are:Cherokee Ridge - 2 classesFairyland - 1 classGilbert - 1 classNaomi - 2 classesNorth LaFayette - 2 classesRock Spring - 2 classesRossville - 2 classesParents can call 706-375-2050 for help with zoned areas or visit walkercountyschools.org or decal.ga.gov for more information.
Time is almost up for parents to register their children in pre-kindergarten programs at Walker County Schools.
Parents of children who will be 4 years old by Sept. 1 can get applications for pre-K at their zoned area elementary school. The applications will be accepted until May 4, pre-kindergarten director Robin Samples said.
Parents must present proof of residency and documentation before their child can be enrolled in the program.
The program currently has a total of 264 students across the county.
If there are more children than available seats in the classrooms, the child will be placed on a waiting list and notified when a spot opens, Samples said.
"There is a strict structured curriculum for the pre-K students, it is not just a babysitting environment," Samples said. "The program allows students to familiarize and learn the school."
Classes are taught by certificated teachers and next year assistant teachers will be required to be certificated.
Walker County also provides students the opportunity to apply for free/reduced lunch, which includes breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack.
Pre-K operates and follows the Walker County School system schedule.
The program is voluntary and funded by lottery money.
"We are teaching our students that graduation is not an option," Samples said. "Nothing is more rewarding than asking a student what grade they are in and they respond, 'I'm not in a grade. I'm in the Class of 2026.'"
Those whose applications are accepted will be entered into a lottery drawing on June 7 at 8:30 a.m. at the Walker County Board of Education, 201 S. Duke St. in LaFayette. The public is welcome to attend in order to keep the process open and transparent, officials said.