The Poplar Bluff Early Childhood Center has made great strides over the past year in further bridging the community’s kindergarten readiness gap by adding a full-day preschool program.

Last summer, ECH was awarded start-up funding through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education—a five-year renewable grant—to serve up to 60 additional students, ages 3-5.

The paid all-day preschool program runs from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. year-round, enrolling students on a first come, first serve basis. The curriculum—taught by certified staff—is aligned with state standards and expectations that transfer seamlessly to the Kindergarten Center.

“It’s amazing at this age—they can do so much more than you think they can—when you just push and give those experiences,” said JoAnne Westbrook, ECH director. “Environment is a big thing, and them just learning to be social and get along with the group. It’s essential.”

The cost of preschool has been reduced recently to $100 per week, which is highly competitive with other day cares in the area, with discounts available on a sliding scale based on income levels used under the National School Lunch Program.

The ECH additionally offers two half-day sessions with a multi-criterion enrollment process determined by the federal Title 1 and Early Childhood Special Education programs.