McDowell County Schools is making strides in prioritizing students through its universal pre-K initiative. With a commitment to inclusive education, they’re making significant progress towards their goal. According to Crystal Hamby, the assistant superintendent, 72% of eligible 4-year-olds in the county are now enrolled in pre-K, a notable increase from before COVID-19 when only 50 to 55% were enrolled.
The journey to this achievement wasn’t easy. A dedicated group of education leaders worked tirelessly to revamp the early childhood education program. Their approach included ensuring every public elementary school in the county had at least one pre-K classroom.
The key to their success lay in breaking down the silos that previously existed in early childhood education. Programs like NC Pre-K and Head Start operated somewhat independently, each with its own funding and eligibility criteria. Recognizing this, leaders merged efforts and transformed the Head Start office into the Office of Early Learning for McDowell County.
Karey Dulaney, the Head Start director, spearheaded efforts to integrate 4-year-olds from Head Start into pre-K classrooms within elementary schools. This integration allowed for better collaboration among staff and a more streamlined approach to achieving their shared goal of enhancing early childhood education accessibility.
What sets McDowell County apart is its universal pre-K program, open to all 4-year-olds regardless of income. By pooling funds from various sources and securing a grant from Dogwood Health Trust, they made pre-K available at no cost to families. Their aim is to eliminate economic barriers for young children, ensuring every child has the opportunity to attend school.
Marketing efforts have played a crucial role in spreading awareness about the program. Utilizing multiple platforms including social media, community events, and local establishments, they’ve reached a wide audience. However, challenges like sustainable funding and transportation persist.
Despite these challenges, McDowell County remains committed to its universal pre-K program. Superintendent Tracey Grit emphasizes the board’s dedication and the program’s value in putting students first.
