ATLANTA – School bells are ringing for the state’s youngest learners as Georgia’s Pre-K Program begins its 34th year. The first day of Georgia’s Pre-K Program varies based on school systems and child care providers.
Instruction started last week in Chattooga County and continues through the week of September 3 in Murray and Webster counties. Most Georgia school systems began classes this week or last.
“Research shows the early education of children from birth to age five is critical to their success in kindergarten and elementary school,” said Amy M. Jacobs, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning, the state agency that administers the program. “We believe laying a solid foundation for academic and social emotional success in our youngest learners is also important for the long-term economic growth of Georgia by helping to build a competent and qualified workforce.”
Added Susan Adams, Deputy Commissioner for Georgia’s Pre-K Program and Instructional Supports: “Starting school is an exciting time for children and families and is also a time when learning and education become more formalized. Starting school is a big step, and we’re honored to provide the first quality formal education experience for many children in Georgia.”
Last year, Georgia achieved a historic milestone by meeting all 10 benchmarks in the annual National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) State of Pre-K Report Card for the 2024– 25 school year. This accomplishment marked a major step forward for the state’s early childhood education system and underscored Georgia’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality, pre-kindergarten experiences Georgia’s Pre-K Program began in 1992 as a pilot program serving 750 at-risk, four-year-olds at 20 locations.
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