Preschool programs
Preschool is a foundational time in a child's life. It provides their initial exposure to school and sets the tone for their educational career. Studies show that children who attend preschool perform better on standardized tests, learn important social skills earlier and graduate high school at higher rates and earn more as adults. We offer several programs for this important time of learning.
Center for Child Development (CFCD)
We are a federal and state funded, needs-based program that offers free full day 4K to a limited number of qualifying students who turn 4 years old on or before September 1st of the upcoming school year and reside within the Richland School District Two attendance zone. To qualify, students must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Lower developmental readiness
- Free/reduced lunch eligible
- Other risk factors
The program has a limited capacity. To be considered for a spot, you must apply during the application window. Applications demonstrating the highest need will be offered available spots first. This means that not everyone who applies will be accepted into the program.
Contact 4K
Contact Montessori Magnet at Pontiac
Montessori Magnet at Pontiac
Montessori is a magnet program that serves three-year-olds through fifth grade students. There are five Primary classrooms (3, 4, and 5 year olds), 5 Lower Elementary classrooms (1st, 2nd and 3rd graders) and 3 Upper Elementary classrooms (4th and 5th graders). Our program serves approximately 260 students in 13 classrooms.
To apply , parents will enter the Richland Two Choice/Magnet Lottery. This lottery runs in December and again in May.
Core tenets of Montessori:
- Students are in multi-aged classroom
- Teachers follow state standards through the Montessori Method of learning
- Students are self directed in their learning
- Students work for a 3 hour uninterrupted work period on lessons specially designed for their individual learning needs
- Students use core Montessori materials to develop conceptual understanding of skills. Traditional work books and methods are not used in Montessori.
Preschool Special Services
The school district provides preschool special services to children ages three to five whose developmental progress is delayed to the extent that a program of special education is required to ensure adequate preparation for school age experiences. Children must meet eligibility requirements established by the State Department of Education in accordance with state and federal law. Children enter the screening and evaluation process by referral from an agency, parent, or guardian. If you are aware of a preschooler from 3 to 5 years of age who may need special services, please call 803-865-5353 to schedule an appointment and a possible screening.
Contact PreK Special Education
