Kennedy Early Childhood Center

The Early Childhood Pre-K Readiness Program is offered through the Lawrence Public Schools District, USD 497. This Pre-K readiness program provides a free early childhood educational experience for children who may not otherwise have the opportunity to attend pre-school. Eligible families are offered to attend a full-day program, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. With no class on Wednesdays. Children must be four years old on or before August 31st of the year of program entry. 

* If your child is currently attending a preschool, the parent will need a referral letter from the child's current pre-school in order to enroll in Lawrence Public Schools' program. Children not attending preschool will have first priority for enrollment 

Requirements

  • Children must live in the Lawrence Public Schools District Area 
  • Must be 4 years old on or before August, 31st 

Cost

  • For families who meet qualifications, their is no fee

Transportation

  • Parents must provide their child's transportation to and from the classroom 

Qualifications

  • Family is eligible for Free Lunch based on upcoming school year Child Nutrition Program Benefit Guidelines which is determined by completing a free and reduced lunch application OR 
  • Family is eligible for reduced lunch based on upcoming school year Child Nutrition Program Benefit Guidelines which is determined by completing a free and reduced lunch application AND 
    • Meet at least one of the following: 
    • Custodial parent is unmarried 
    • Child was born to a teen parent 
    • Parent is lacking a high school diploma or GED 
    • English is a child's second language (appropriate documentation must be on file) 
    • Child qualifies for migrant status (appropriate documentation must be on file) 
    • Family is being referred by DCF (appropriate documentation must be on file) AND 
      • Child is not attending another pre-school program 

Once eligibility is determined and a spot is available, you will be notified with further information and papers necessary to complete enrollment. 

Questions? Call:785-832-5760 | Early Childhood Programs at Kennedy Lawrence, KS 66046 | https://www.usd497.org/Page/1185