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Ohio County Schools will offer pre-kindergarten classes Monday through Friday beginning with the fall semester.

Previously, pre-kindergarten classes in the school district only took place four days each week.

“We are trying to fit the needs of the community,” explained Karin Butyn, public relations director for Ohio County Schools. “We know there are a lot of working parents. Giving them an extra day where they won’t have to find child care will help the community. We hope it makes their lives easier.

“Also, we hope this gives students some consistency in a place that fosters excitement and a life-long love of learning. Pre-K offers a great foundation for kindergarten. It’s never too early to start learning.”

Pre-kindergarten registration starts at 8 a.m. today in the school district, and families registering their child earlier have a better chance of placing them at the site of their choosing.

There are 19 pre-kindergarten sites in the county, and each will be offering classes to students for six hours each weekday.

Parents and guardians may download the necessary registration form at boe.ohio.k12.wv.us, fill them out and submit them. There will also be a phone number listed on the site they can call if they wish to register through a person.

“While doing this we referenced state policy and made sure all our programs are in compliance with current policies,” Butyn said. “Our staff concerns were taken into consideration.

“We have really tremendous Pre-K teachers in Ohio County Schools, and if there is anyone you can trust your child with, it is them. They are outstanding.”

Butyn credited Ohio County Schools Director of Students Raquel McLeod and secretary Jackie Saseen for making the five-day school day for pre-kindergarten students possible.

“We also are grateful to our principals and early education educators for their willingness to bring this option to life,” she added.

Superintendent Kim Miller was involved when the pre-kindergarten program in Ohio County Schools began in 2010.

“It is great to see we provide these opportunities for our littlest learners,” she said. “Transitioning to five days will benefit our students and families and make it consistent with our school age kids. We are very appreciative of our Pre-K partners and our Pre-K team.”

Students who turn 4 on or before June 30 are eligible to start pre-kindergarten, and those who will be 5 on that date should register for kindergarten classes.

Pre-kindergarten classes are not a requirement for children in West Virginia, but registering for kindergarten is mandatory under state law.