BY VINCENT TODARO
Staff Writer

EAST BRUNSWICK - The school district will introduce a full-day preschool program for community members and school employees this year.

The Board of Education voted earlier this month to approve the program, which will be funded by users, instead of through taxes. Superintendent of Schools Jo Ann Magistro said the program is a way to both fulfill a need in the community and bring in revenue for the school district. The cost to the users, at $9,500 for 10 months, is comparable to fees charged by other preschools in the community, according to the district.

The program, open to children ages 3, 4 and 5 who are not yet eligible for kindergarten, will focus on preparing students for kindergarten.

"The program will be dedicated to providing a supportive, personalized environment in which students will grow intellectually, emotionally, physically and socially today in preparation for tomorrow," according to district literature.

It will aim to help children "develop a positive self-image and learn the basic skills necessary for successful school performance, particularly through socialization with other children, creative play, and active learning opportunities."

Classes will be taught by certified teachers. The program will be held at Lawrence Brook Elementary School, Sullivan Way.

School officials believe the preschool program will fulfill a need that exists for staff and parents. It is not yet known just how much use it will get.

"It's new, so we're hoping it takes hold," said Trish LaDuca, coordinator of community relations and programs. "It may start out slowly, but we're certainly looking to have it be a program that equals the excellence of all our other programs."

This is the latest in the school district's efforts to coordinate user-funded programs for parents to take their children to when they have to work. Last year, the district began a program during staff development days that allows children of working parents to attend school. At present, the district is also running an enrichment program at Irwin Elementary School for children to attend after the end of the township's summer camp and before the start of school.

Officials believe the preschool program will help teachers with young children.

"As a teacher, you like to get to school before the students, and you like to stay after school for a little while. This allows that opportunity at a reasonable price," LaDuca said.

The program will run Monday through Friday, with hours from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. A meal plan is included in the fees, but transportation is not available.

The preschool children will have their own rooms, each with their own restroom and a private courtyard for outdoor play.

The program will coincide with the public school calendar, which means delayed openings and emergency closings will be the same.

Payments will be made on the 20th of each month at a cost of $950, or users will face a $25 late fee. There is also a one-time $50 registration fee. Students are encouraged not to miss classes, since the district will not prorate fees.

To have their children admitted, parents must show a birth certificate with original seal, immunization records, proof of physical examination, and proof of employment or residency.

The child must be 3 years old before Oct. 31, and toilet trained.

The school year begins Sept. 10 in East Brunswick.

For more information about the preschool program, call the East Brunswick Public Schools Community Programs Department at (732) 613-6982 or e-mail commprog@ebnet.org.