WESTOVER, MD (May 20, 2024) – The Somerset Early Learning Advisory Council (SELAC) and the Somerset County Judy Center recently hosted Somerset County Public School’s (SCPS) Inaugural School Readiness Fair. Somerset’s Early Childhood community collaborated to present a resource fair for Somerset County families with children under age 5. Over 200 adults and children attended the evening event at Somerset Intermediate School, engaging with 52 local partners and SCPS staff. Families in attendance received Pre-K and Kindergarten registration assistance, early intervention & screening information, participated in family learning sessions, enjoyed free dinner and accessed community partner resources.
Although rescheduled due to weather, the event was initially planned to coincide with the Week of the Young Child; a national campaign sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) focusing public attention on the needs of young children and families by raising awareness of the importance of access to quality early childhood programs and services.
Supervisor of Early Childhood Instruction, Mrs. Karen Karten shared, “SCPS is dedicated to providing high quality programming to all of our youngest learners, offering universal Pre-K4 to all children turning 4 by September 1 regardless of income and Pre-K3 to 3-year-old students who meet income qualifications. The School Readiness Fair was such an impactful way to connect families with our local quality early childhood programs and services that SELAC and the Judy Center have committed to making it an annual event during the Week of the Young Child.”
For more information about school readiness, Pre-K or Kindergarten registration, visit: https://www.somerset.k12.md.us/o/scps/page/early-childhood-instruction#prekregistration
200 families and children recently attended SCPS’ inaugural School Readiness Fair at Somerset Intermediate School.
Faculty from Woodson & Princess Anne Elementary schools attended to share information about their school with families attending the School Readiness Fair.
Deal Island Elementary School faculty attended the School Readiness Fair to meet and greet new families of preschool aged children attending DIS next year.
Children and families attending the School Readiness Fair had an opportunity to ride a real school bus and learn about bus safety.
School Readiness Fair attendees received information and resources from local partner agencies.
School Readiness Fair attendees received information and resources from local partner agencies.
Families attending the School Readiness Fair participated in educational sessions focused on meeting the developmental needs of young children.