FLINT – The Genesee Intermediate School
District (GISD) is excited to announce that local families can benefit from a
recent change in eligibility requirements for one of its preschool programs.
According to the Michigan Department of Education (MDE), Office of Great Start,
and Fiscal Year 20/21 Legislation, the income requirement for the Great Start
Readiness Program (GSRP) has been adjusted for the 2020-2021 school year. The
change means more children will be able to participate in our GSRP program for
free.
“This change is significant,” said Catrina Wiskur, Director of Early
Childhood Programs for GISD. “We know that the earlier children become engaged
in the learning process, the better. Sometimes parents miss the mark to qualify
for free preschool programs by a small amount. Now, many more parents will be
able to enroll their children in GSRP without any cost.”
GSRP provides preschool classes to four-year-old children in Genesee
County. Priority is given to children who turned four by September 1, but
children who will be four years of age by December 1, 2020, may also qualify if
they will be attending kindergarten in the 2021-2022 school year. Classes are located
in schools and childcare centers throughout the county. Due to COVID-19, programs
may be offering virtual and face to face learning options.
The income requirement for the 2020-2021 school year has
been increased from 250% of the federal poverty level to 400%. Families with an annual income above
400% of the federal poverty line may still be eligible to enroll with a small
tuition fee. Interested parents can find out if their child qualifies for a
free preschool program by calling (810) 591-KIDS (591-5437).
“GSRP
provides kids with a solid foundation for learning,” added Wiskur. “This is a
great opportunity for children and parents in Genesee County.”