Register now slots limited for YMCA new pre-k school prep program

Early learning program for children ages 4-5
Looking to prepare young children for school register for YMCA new pre-k prep program.
Published: Jun. 4, 2024 at 5:40 PM EDT

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KEVN) - In preparation to have kids ready for school, the YMCA, Rapid City is launching a new pre-k readiness program in September.

CEO, of YMCA Rapid City, Keiz Larson says slots are limited as they will only accept 20 kids to participate in the pilot program. She says they wanted to get the kids ready for a school day format so we are following the school day schedule, from 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Larson says the curriculum includes reading, writing and early mathematics, along with the social skills and children will need to learn before attending Kindergarten. The program prepares young children for an all-day school day format and helps prepare them emotionally and intellectually for school. The day will follow the Rapid City Area Schools schedule of Monday-Friday 7:45 a.m.-2:45 p.m., beginning August 19th. She says many kids are not quite used to the school day structure and will need the practice. If you are interested in enrolling your child, applications can be filled out in person at the YMCA/Rapid City Schools Administrative Building located at 625 9th Street in Rapid City. Larson says if you want an early learning program in a nurturing environment where a kid gets to be a kid then register now and don’t wait because slots will fill up.

As for the summer, Larson says we currently have availability in our 3-5 year old program. These are half-day time slots open June 3 – August 9; parents can choose either an 8 a.m.-noon schedule or a 12:30-4:30 p.m. timeslot. We still have openings in all camp sessions for school-age children entering grades 4, 5 or 6.

▪ Session 2 June 17-June 28

▪ Session 3 July 1-July 12

▪ Session 4 July 15-July 26

▪ Session 5 July 29- August 9

Anyone interested in finding out more about the Y’s Summer and Fall early learning programs or Giraffic Park Day Camp can visit the website.