OKCPS Encourages Parents To Enroll Children In Pre-K Programs

Oklahoma City Public Schools is encouraging parents to enroll their little ones in early childhood education programs. Officials said the effects of a good pre-school are long-lasting.

Over the last year, preschool enrollment saw a dip across the state. Now, Oklahoma City Public Schools is encouraging parents to pre-register their little learners in an early childhood learning program. 

Research shows the time spent in pre-K can affect the rest of a child's life. Kids who went to preschool are more likely to graduate high school and attend post-secondary education. Even things like buying a house or car are more likely if a child attends a preschool program. OKCPS' director of early childhood said people learn more in the first five years than in a lifetime.

"Think about a 6-week-old compared to a 4-year-old. The amount of growth that happens in those first five years is incredible," said Stephanie Henton, OKCPS director of early childhood.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, only about half of Oklahoma's pre-K aged kids enrolled in preschool programs, leaving them without crucial learning skills.

"They're learning to work well with other peers. We're building those vocabulary skills by reading to them daily, having that interaction with their peers talking increasing their vocabulary," said OKCPS preschool teacher Taylar Lentz. 

Oklahoma City Public Schools set the little learners up with iPads and access to online resource, Seesaw, with hands on learning to help bridge the gap left by virtual learning.

"Sometimes, it involves something fun like if we're working on the letter 'B,' go find something in your house that makes the letter 'B' sound, go quick, so they're getting up and moving," said Henton. 

"We do little tips and tricks, we'll set up little seesaw activities for the kids to do at home with their parents like singing the ABC's while they're washing their hands, being independent with putting on their masks," Lentz said. 

The children are now in the classroom four days a week. Lentz said they couldn't be more excited.

Pre-registration for Oklahoma City Public Schools' pre-K is open now for kids who will turn 4 before September 1.

Click here to register.