Focus on School Readiness

The years before a child enters kindergarten directly impact a child’s ability to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. School Readiness means preparing all children for kindergarten by supporting birth-to-age-five programming. Virginia's focus includes key classroom practices such as the use of high-quality curriculum and assessment, teacher-child interactions and individualized professional development. It also includes strengthening family engagement.  

For Parents and Caregivers of Children Aged Birth to Five

Begin here to navigate the range of information and resources for children from birth to age five on this website. Resources for Families includes developmental standards and guidelines, preschool programs, special education information and links to a number of early childhood supports including health and social services. Child Care VA includes information about Virginia's child care options, including how to become a licensed or registered child care provider, and how families can get help paying for child care.

Preschool Programs for Four Year Olds

Early childhood programs in Virginia public schools provide a foundation for learning and academic success. In addition to information on Preschool Programs and services, this section includes professional development resources for teachers and grant management tools for administrators.

Early Childhood Special Education Services for Children Birth to Age Five

For children with disabilities, Virginia's public school system offers early childhood services as part of their special education programs. These Early Childhood Special Education services provide children with disabilities the services needed to attain skills that are comparable to their typically developing peers.

If you have questions about Early Childhood Services please contact Suzanne Webb - VPI Coordinator/Elon Rhodes Early Learning Center Director 

Phone Number - 540-434-6075

Email: kwest@harrisonburg.k12.va.us