Great Start Readiness Program Information

Great Start Readiness Program

Information Sheet

The Great Start Readiness Program is a state-funded FREE preschool program through the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential. The Great Start Readiness Program falls under the “PreK for All” umbrella to provide high-quality education to all four year olds across the state.

About the Program

Child must be four years of age by Sept. 1, 2025.
The first day of the program is Oct. 2, 2025, and the last day is May 21, 2026.
The program runs 34 weeks from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday–Thursday.
Includes full meals (breakfast, lunch and p.m. snack).
Before/After care and Friday care are available at tuition rates (signed contract needed).
Field trips are included at no cost.
Two home visits will occur, the first in September prior to the start of the program.
Two conferences will take place.

Process

Throughout the year, potential applicants will be directed to to fill out an In-Take Application for eligibility.
Priority will be given according to the eligibility and prioritization flow chart, with children with low family incomes served first (400% below FPL), followed by families with risk factors.
Starting in the Spring, income-eligible families will be contacted to provide proof of income and the child’s birth certificate.
Those who provide documents in a timely manner will secure a spot. Once all the spots are full, regardless of eligibility, the family would be put on a wait list.
Enrollment before the start of the program can occur provided tuition is paid.
All enrollment paperwork must be completed before orientation.
A mandatory orientation will occur before the program starts, in September.

Paperwork

A copy of your child’s Birth Certificate or proof of his/her age.
A copy of your child’s current Health Appraisal and up-to-date Immunization Records.
Proof of annual family income, preferably a tax statement from the previous year.
Proof of any and all risk factors your child has.