An interview with Sharps Chapel Pre-K teacher, Erica Berry
Tell me a little about the history of Union County Pre-K programs. “Union County Public Schools has proudly offered high-quality Pre-K programs since 2006. This state grant is written and reapplied for every year and now extends to all five elementary schools. Each program serves a maximum of 20 students each year. We have had several wonderful people serve on our Community Pre-K Advisory Council (CPAC), who laid a strong foundation for us to build upon.
“When I first started, only Sharps Chapel, Maynardville and Luttrell had a Pre-K program, and it took lots of behind the scenes work to add programs to Big Ridge and Paulette. Former VPK Director, Roger Flatford, really went above and beyond to make that happen. Lots of state changes have been made since he retired, and our current VPK director Dr. Lauren Effler has sincerely poured her heart into ensuring that Pre-K students have what they need to be successful.”
What are the benefits of sending my child to Pre-K?
“Students become familiar with their school and various staff members. According to both local and state data, Pre-K students typically score higher on Kindergarten entrance assessments than peers who do not attend a Pre-K program. All teachers are highly qualified, and all faculty and staff are certified in CPR, AED, and First Aid.
“Each program has an assistant. The state-approved curriculum is research based, play-based, and developmentally appropriate for young children, which really makes learning fun.
“Union County Pre-K programs are well funded. Pre-K students receive free breakfast, lunch and snacks. Additionally, all school supplies are provided so parents have minimal expenses. Transportation is provided, and students follow the K-12 schedule. Students who attend Pre-K are offered various services from the school system such as speech therapy, occupational therapy and counseling, if needed.”
What vision does the Union County Pre-K Program have?
“We want to see our Union County families succeed. We understand that limited child care in our rural community can cause financial hardships on many families, and we will gladly reapply for the VPK Grant each year to ensure that the majority of four year olds are served. We also want our young students to become strong readers. So, offering free books to all Pre-K students throughout the year will continue. That is something our Pre-K staff is passionate about. We’re also very proud of our relationships with our Pre-K families. Our teachers and staff strive to foster warm and supportive environments within our programs, and that has to start with good communication with our Pre-K families.”
Who can apply?
“If you have a child who will turn four by August 15, he/she could qualify for a Pre-K program. Although income eligible students are prioritized, anyone is welcome to apply.”
How can you register your child?
“There is a QR Code in this month’s issue, and parents can simply scan it to access the online application. They can also visit the school Facebook pages, UCPS website or stop by a school to get access to the online application. For families who do have access to the internet, please call your first school of choice, and someone will be glad to help you complete the application.”
When will I know if my child was accepted?
“Letters are mailed the last week of school. If you have not received a letter notifying you of the status of acceptance by June 1, please contact your first school of choice.”
Big Ridge Elementary School 865-992-8687
Luttrell Elementary School 865-992-3441
Maynardville Elementary School 865-992-8391
Paulette Elementary School 865-745-0224
Sharps Chapel Elementary School 865-992-7087
Please visit the UCPS website at http://www.ucps.org, and click on the Pre-K program tab for more information about the programs, services, and resources.