New junior kindergart offered in Dublin
Dublin youngsters who just missed the age requirement to start kindergarten in September can get an early start on next year through a school district pilot program.
The Dublin school district will offer a free junior kindergarten program at Dublin Elementary School from Jan. 26 to June 11. An informational meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday at the school district offices, 7471 Larkdale Ave.
The half-day program with fully-credentialed teachers is available to children who will turn 5 years old between Dec. 3, 2009 and March 23, 2010. This year’s kindergarten students had to be that age by Dec. 2. Those in the junior kindergarten program cannot start until they are 5.
There will be one class of 22 students, said Superintendent Stephen Hanke. Priority will be given to children depending on their birth dates. There will be a waiting list for those who don’t get in at first.
Hanke said not all students would benefit, but the program gives a chance for some to get added learning. He said with an emphasis on standardized tests and student achievement, these days students need to be prepared for school.
“A critical component is kindergarten readiness,” Hanke said. “Kindergarten has changed. It’s a whole different method of preparing students.”
Hanke said junior kindergarten is different from preschool, which he said is more for younger students.
