Parents encouraged to enroll keiki in free pre-kindergarten programs

Hawaii County has announced the availability of free, high-quality pre-kindergarten programs through the state’s Public Pre-kindergarten Program.

Designed to provide valuable learning experiences, this program is open to all 3- and 4-year-old keiki on the island, according to a county press release.

The program accepts up to 20 keiki per classroom, including those with special needs.

“We are thrilled that our keiki here on Hawaii Island will be provided more options to access high-quality early education, setting them up for lifelong success,” said Mayor Mitch Roth in the release. “We understand the immense impact of early exposure to education on students’ academic journey, which is why I urge all parents of young keiki to seriously consider applying for this invaluable free opportunity.”

The Executive Office on Early Learning operates pre-kindergarten classrooms on various state Department of Education campuses, providing an opportunity for children to receive a year of preschool experience before beginning kindergarten.

There are currently 32 sites statewide that have been running for a few years, and as part of the lieutenant governor’s Ready Keiki Plan, the EOEL is opening another 11 sites in August.

Parents and families interested in enrolling their keiki can apply now.

To learn more about the program and to submit an application, visit readykeiki.org. The EOEL oversees the Public Pre-kindergarten Program and can be contacted at (808) 784-5350 or via email at eoel.info@eoel.hawaii.gov.