MACON, Ga. — Kids have much to learn before they even get to school, and Pre-Kindergarten is a great place to start.
Georgia's Pre-K program helps prepare 4-year-olds for kindergarten and now is the time to apply if you want your child to get a Pre-K slot.
The program provides a 6.5 hour instructional day, five days a week, 180 days a year at no cost to families. You must apply to be considered for a spot in a Pre-K program.
Registration for the program in Bibb County ends soon. You'll find programs in daycare centers and schools.
The Pre-K classroom is buzzing at Burdell-Hunt Elementary School.
On Tuesday, students were playing games and learning to sound out words. Some students 13WMAZ junior journalist Will Rodgers talked to definitely had their favorites.
"My teachers," one student said.
"I like to play in centers," another student said.
According to the Office of the National Superintendent, students also build self-esteem and develop social skills during Pre-K.
Students not only have the opportunity to learn their A-B-C's, but they also learn valuable lessons about expressing their emotions and working through challenges.
Bibb County's Director of Elementary Services Olena Stadnik-Floore says these skills are very beneficial and help get students for the rest of their academic career.
"Of course, the social and all the rules and procedures are very important because that's how we learn to work in a society," Stadnik-Floore said. "And for the students, their classroom is their society, is their community and so we're teaching them how do you become that productive member of your community — but we do it in a fun way."
One Pre-K teacher, Shelia Hughes, says Pre-K students learn lessons that will stick with them throughout their education.
"I feel that pre-K gives them the foundation they need to start off their academic journey. It helps them with socialization and academic skills that are very important for the rest of their school years," she said.
You can fill out the Pre-K application on Bibb County School's website.
Houston County's Pre-K registration opens on March 4. The process is a little different there, you'll have to make an appointment to fill out an application.
And don't forget, 13WMAZ is still taking My Teacher is Tops nominations.
You can nominate them for My Teacher is Tops by writing us a letter or email.
Send letters to 1314 Gray Highway, Macon Georgia, 31211 or email us at myteacheristops@13wmaz.com.
You can also send us a video on the 13WMAZ app.
Make sure to include your name, your teacher's name, and what school you attend. Get a parent to help you upload the video, and our Junior Journalists might just surprise your teacher next!