Children who enter Kindergarten with the critical cognitive, social-emotional, and fine motor skills – the fundamental building blocks for learning to read, write, and think mathematically – are more likely to succeed in school, in college, and in their career. In 2012, Act 3 began an effort of the Louisiana Department of Education to unify it’s early childhood system and improve Kindergarten readiness. By empowering families with access to high quality early childhood options, the state seeks to start every child, birth – 5 years old, on track for success.

The Webster Ready Start Network is comprised of 18 Early Childhood sites: 

•  10 Type III Early Learning Centers 
•  3 Early Head Start/Head Start sites 
•  5 Public Pre-K schools

Type III Early Learning Centers: 

Early Learning Centers have committed to working with education providers to raise the level of standards and expectations for children Birth to age 5.  This is accomplished through additional professional development and following the Louisiana Department of Education Birth to 5 Standards.  Teachers are observed using the CLASS observation tool and all children receiving tuition assistance are assessed using Teaching Strategies GOLD.  These programs are eligible to receive tuition assistance through the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP).

Early Head Start/Head Start: 

Early Head Start/Head Start is a federal program for toddlers (18-35 mos.) and preschool children (3 & 4 year olds) with eligibility requirements. Children who attend Head Start engage in educational preschool programs and receive free medical and dental care. Highly trained and qualified teachers and staff follow the Louisiana Department of Education Birth to 5 Standards. Teachers are observed using the CLASS observation tool and all children are assessed using Teaching Strategies GOLD.    

WPSB Pre-K Program: 

WPSB PreK program is offered to a limited number of children in Webster Parish. Funding is provided through the LA4, 8(g), and Title 1 grants.  Students qualify based on grant guidelines. Highly trained and qualified teachers and staff follow the Louisiana Department of Education Birth to 5 Standards. Teachers are observed using the CLASS observation tool and all children are assessed using Teaching Strategies GOLD. Children registering must be four years of age on or before September 30 and reside in Webster Parish.