Pre-kindergarten - K-2

K-2

"K-2" is often (and controversially) used interchangeably with "pre-kindergarten". Although early childhood education experts criticize the use of the term as a way to rationalize utilizing a kindergarten model and teaching kindergarten skills in pre-kindergarten classes, public school districts continue to incorporate the term as a way to integrate pre-kindergarten into the stable of accountability under the No Child Left Behind Act. Most school districts describe Pre-Kindergarten(PK) as: Pre-kindergarten in the United States is an early learning program to prepare children for kindergarten who are identified as at risk. Pre-kindergarten provides learning to children who are 4 years old on or before September 1st. Pre-kindergarten for three year olds provides learning to children who are 3 on or before September 1st. Most programs are 3 hours but extended day is offered in some schools.

To qualify for free pre-kindergarten the child generally must be: 4 years old (some districts offer 3 year old programs) on or before September 1 and meet one of the following criteria: Limited English Proficiency. (Note: This refers to the United States only. In Canada and other countries, free pre-kindergarten programs may not necessarily be available to parents or may have different criteria for admission.)

Economically Disadvantaged. Students qualifying as economically disadvantaged must meet the federal income eligibility guidelines. To qualify a family must have income below about 175% of the Annual Federal Poverty Guidelines (U.S.A).

Homeless.

The child of a parent in the military or injured or killed while actively serving in the military. Appropriate U.S. Department of Defense identification or documentation must be provided.

In or have been in the conservatorship of the state. Appropriate documentation from the Department of Family and Protective Services must be provided.

It should be noted that "Pre-Kindergarten" may have different meanings in other countries. In India, this is also known as Nursery in Kindergartens such as Applekids.