• °ÅÀÖ¶ÌÊÓƵPre-K Programs provide a rich, child-centered, literacy-focused program

    that incorporates and encourages regular parent involvement.

       

     

     

Bright Beginnings

  • The Bright Beginnings Pre-K Program serves 3,240 eligible four-year-old students in 63 Charlotte Mecklenburg elementary schools. Eligibility for participation in the Bright Beginnings program is determined through a screening process. Children who demonstrate the greatest need are placed first. The placement process continues until all spaces are filled.

North Carolina Pre-K Program

  • The NC Pre-K Program serves an additional 1,418 children in 25 high-quality, community-based childcare centers. Eligibility for NC Pre-K is based on family size, gross income, and other qualifying indicators.  

    Early Childhood Education Center

What is the difference between the programs?

  •   NC Pre-K Program Bright Beginnings Program
    Location High-Quality Child Development Centers °ÅÀÖ¶ÌÊÓƵElementary Schools
    Length of Day 6.5 hours 6.5 hours
    Before/Aftercare Available in all centers for a fee Only available in 2 °ÅÀÖ¶ÌÊÓƵschools for a fee
    Eligibility Family income and other risk factors Demonstrated educational need and family income if necessary
    Class Size 18 18
    Schedule °ÅÀÖ¶ÌÊÓƵSchool Calendar °ÅÀÖ¶ÌÊÓƵSchool Calendar
    Curriculum Creative Curriculum Creative Curriculum
    Breakfast Free Free
    Lunch Free $2.40 unless approved for free or reduced price lunch
    Transportation May be available, depending on distance to center Guaranteed to home school
    Teacher Certification BK License BK License