Palm Springs Unified School District opens enrollment for early childhood education programs
Timothy Foster
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) — Palm Springs Unified School District is now accepting enrollment for its Early Childhood Education programs, offering eligible families free early learning opportunities designed to prepare young children for success in school and beyond.
The district’s Early Childhood Education Department is enrolling children in its Head Start, Early Head Start and California State Preschool programs. District leaders say the programs provide a strong foundation during the critical early years of a child’s development while supporting families with educational and community resources.
Educators say the programs focus on much more than academics. Children learn social and emotional skills, communication, problem-solving, independence and classroom routines that help prepare them for kindergarten.
Head Start teacher Nancy Cortez has seen those benefits firsthand, both as an educator and as a parent.
“My two youngest were actually part of the program, the Head Start program, and I’ve just seen the way they are now, how this program has helped them get to that point,” Cortez said.
Cortez said watching children grow throughout the school year is one of the most rewarding parts of her job.
“It’s just building those relationships with the children and with the families and just watching them grow, having fun, those smiles and just those connections, those positive connections and their growth at the end of the year just watching them and seeing all that they’ve done they’ve accomplished throughout the year,” she said.
Early Childhood Education teacher Araceli Gonzalez said the classrooms help children build confidence before entering kindergarten.
“The programs are always welcome for parents if they’re unsure about enrolling their child. They can always come and observe and stay with their child,” Gonzalez said. “We help them first with social and emotional… it’s also important for their kids to be ready to deal with other students, with other kids.”
She said children who participate in the programs gain valuable experience interacting with classmates, building friendships and becoming comfortable in a classroom environment before starting elementary school.
District officials also say the programs can ease the burden on working families by providing a safe, structured learning environment throughout the day.
Early Childhood Education Director Linda Rodriguez said the programs are available at no cost to qualifying families.
“The most important thing is that it’s free,” Rodriguez said. “We know how hard it is in this economy right now, so having them in a safe environment… I invite the families to come on over.”
In addition to early learning, children enrolled in the programs receive nutritious meals, family engagement opportunities and access to support services designed to help families succeed.
Enrollment is open for eligible children ages 2 through 4. Qualifying families include those who meet income guidelines, families experiencing homelessness, foster children, children with disabilities and English learners.
Classes begin Aug. 10, and district officials encourage families to apply as soon as possible because space is limited.
Parents interested in enrolling or learning more can call 760-883-2703, email ECEstaff@psusd.us, or visit www.psusd.us for additional information.