Reno and Sparks are not just home to breathtaking landscapes and vibrant communities, they are also the birthplace of a revolutionary movement in early childhood education – the Nevada Ready! State Pre-K Program (NR!PK), exceptionally implemented at Little Bear Preschools in Sparks.
Unveiling the Nevada Ready! State Pre-K Program
NR!PK is a state grant initiative from the Nevada Department of Education, delivered in partnership with the United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra (UWNNS). The program offers unparalleled access to high-quality Pre-K experiences, priming children for lifelong success. The criteria for entry are simple – children need to be four years old by September 30th, and families must meet specific income qualifications.
Redefining Early Education at Little Bear Preschools
At Little Bear Preschools, we understand that the first years of education are crucial in shaping a child’s future. With experienced teaching staff and a curriculum that aligns with State Pre-K standards, our preschool offers an environment that encourages meaningful, hands-on learning and fosters a love for knowledge.
Our Pre-K curriculum includes a minimum of 25 hours per week, featuring an evidence-based curriculum and assessment. This educational approach allows for children’s exploration with thematic learning materials in a play-based environment, nurturing their curiosity and creativity.
Stronger Together: United Way Partnership
We believe in the power of community and collaboration. Our partnership with UWNNS allows us to offer high-quality Pre-K for children who might otherwise miss out on this opportunity. United Way’s commitment to partnering with private early learning centers across Northwestern Nevada ensures that more families can access top-tier early education.
Easing the Journey: Kindergarten Transition Plan
Moving from preschool to kindergarten is a significant milestone. To help make this transition as smooth as possible, each Nevada Ready! State Pre-K classroom at Little Bear develops and implements a Kindergarten Transition Plan. This plan, unique to each child, details strategies and activities to ease the change and provide continued growth.
Nurturing Curiosity: Our Education and Care Philosophy
At Little Bear Preschools, we follow an education philosophy centered around play and exploration. We celebrate each child’s unique interests, abilities, and learning styles, ensuring our curriculum caters to each child’s individual developmental pace. Family involvement is key, and we actively encourage participation in your child’s educational journey.
The Nevada Quality Rating & Improvement System Endorsement
Little Bear & University Preschool are proud participants in the Nevada Silver State Stars Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS). This program evaluates childcare centers, ensuring we meet and exceed quality standards and enabling families to make an informed choice about their child’s early education.
Health Initiatives: More than Just a Preschool
At Little Bear Preschools, we believe in holistic development, nurturing mind and body alike. We offer hot lunches sourced from the same nutrition services provider as the Washoe County School District, ensuring a balanced and nutritious diet. Our partnership with Healthy Way to Grow underscores our commitment to reversing the childhood obesity epidemic and promoting a healthy lifestyle from an early age.
Building a Better Tomorrow
As we strive to equip our children for a future filled with potential, our collaboration with the Nevada Ready! State Pre-K program is a significant step forward. We invite you to see how your child can benefit from this transformative educational journey and become ‘Nevada Ready’. At Little Bear Preschools, we’re shaping not just the minds but the futures of our youngest learners.