PSSD now accepting registrations for pre-k, early learning programs

Prairie South School Division (PSSD) is now accepting registrations for its pre-kindergarten program, with parents also able to register their child for an early learning intensive support pilot project. Pre-kindergarten applications are available on the division website atprairiesouth.ca/schools/student-registration. Children ages three and four are eligible for the program, although they must be three years old as of school start-up. Some information required for registration includes preferred school, the child’s name, birth date, current address, country of origin, parents/guardian contact data, and babysitter information.

Meanwhile, parents who want to register their child for the early learning intensive support (ELIS) pilot project must fill out an application form.

The Ministry of Education’s early learning intensive support pilot program is for young children who require intensive supports to meet their potential. Programs are being offered in Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert, North Battleford, Moose Jaw, Yorkton and Swift Current. Pre-kindergarten is a high-quality, half-time early learning program available in some schools. Each pre-k program accepts 16 children who live in vulnerable circumstances. Selection criteria —low socio-economic status, a referral from a government or community-based agency, social isolation or not having access to early learning programs, family health-care challenges, exposure to family trauma and delays in the child’s development — are used to identify the children with the greatest need. The ELIS pilot provides additional spaces in a limited number of pre-kindergarten programs to provide opportunities for children to engage in inclusive learning with other children of the same age. Support will be provided through a collaborative team approach to meet individualized needs and promote learning and participation strengths. The unique needs and circumstances of the child, the class and the building will be considered for each situation.

Children who are three or four years of age can attend the program, although priority will be given to four-yearolds.

A teacher leads the pre-kindergarten program with the support of a pre-k associate. An educational assistant will also be assigned to the program to assist the teacher in supporting the meaningful participation of all children in the program through interactions with peers, the development of play skills, and individualized goals. An Inclusion and Intervention Plan (IIP) will be created for children requiring intensive supports. IIPs are planning documents that describe a child’s special individualized plan. These plans are created by parents/guardians, teachers and others who may support the child and will outline the supports and services the child will receive. Preference will be given to children who are not enrolled in another early learning program where intensive supports are being provided, including licensed child care. This is to reduce transitions for the child throughout the day, match family care needs with program hours, and ensure that the maximum number of children has access to an early learning program.

Family engagement is an integral part of pre-kindergarten. Opportunities will exist for parents to participate and support their child’s learning experiences in meaningful ways within the program. In addition, parents will be part of the collaborative team, identifying and planning individualized goals, planning for transitions and problem solving together.

For more information, call (306) 693-4679.