Explore Free Preschool Options at Area-Wide Great Start Readiness Program Open House

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Great Start Readiness Program (GRSP) locations across Kent and part of Barry County are hosting Open Houses on Friday, April 28 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. unless otherwise noted.  If you have a child turning 4 by December 1, you may qualify for this high-quality preschool program for free.    

“We are thrilled to be able to offer Great Start Readiness Program preschool to families all over Kent County and part of Barry County,” said Kent ISD Superintendent Ron Koehler. “This can be a life-changing experience. Preschool prepares children for success in kindergarten. It promotes language and thinking skills, helps children learn to make friends and spurs emotional development. And since there is no charge for qualifying 4-year-olds for GSRP preschool, I hope all families will enroll in one of the options available to them and offer these advantages to their children”.

Research shows that children who participate in high-quality preschool are likely to be more successful in kindergarten, learn to read and do math at recommended grade levels, and graduate on time.   GSRP is currently offering in-person learning for children who turn 4 by December 1, 2023. 

 “We are ready to welcome more young children into our educational programs that help prepare them for success. We now have openings and many families qualify to have their 4-year-olds participate free of charge,” said Ashley Karsten, Director of Early Childhood for Kent ISD.  

What:    Area-wide Great Start Readiness Program Open House

When:  Friday, April 28, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. (unless otherwise noted)

Where: Find the location most convenient for you here

The open houses will be held at Great Start Readiness Program locations in Byron Center, Caledonia, Cedar Springs, Comstock Park, Forest Hills, Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kent City, Kentwood, Lowell, Middleville, Rockford, Sparta, Walker and Wyoming.

Please direct media inquiries to Joy Walczak, Kent ISD Communications Specialist at joywalczak@kentisd.org or 906.632.6290.