Georgia's Pre-K 2022 Summer Transition program is underway

Jun. 6—The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning is offering a six-week intensive academic program this summer for rising kindergarteners who meet the following criteria.

Child did not attend a Georgia's Pre-K Program or Head Start program during the 2021 — 2022 school year.

Child attended a Georgia's Pre-K or Head Start program but did not attend the entire school year.

Child attended a Georgia's Pre-K or Head Start program the entire school year and falls into one of the priority groups listed below:

— Child identified as needing additional academic support by their teacher.

— Dual language learner. Home language is a language other than English.

— Foster care placement.

— Child's family is without permanent housing or homeless as defined by McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.

— Child with an Individual Education Program.

DECAL Commissioner Amy M. Jacobs said this year there are 72 Rising Pre-K classes and 315 Rising Kindergarten classes located across Georgia. Summer 2022 is the 12th year DECAL has offered the STP. According to independent researchers who have evaluated the STP, the program has significantly impacted the children served, especially in their crucial language and literacy skills.

For more information, visit the http://www.decal.ga.gov/Prek/SummerTransitionProgram.aspx or email summerschool@decal.ga.gov.