4K: A Community Approach to Early Learning
with Black River Falls Schools and area early learning centers
The Benefits of Four Year Old Kindergarten (4K):
 | Children learn academic and social skills through play |
| All activities are developmentally appropriate |
| Children learn what it is like to follow the routines of school |
| 4K helps children develop their language and communication skills |
| 4K is a half day program and therefore it helps ease separation anxiety for children before they enter kindergarten |
| Between the ages of 3 and 5, a child’s brain grows to 75-90% of its adult size |
| 85% of a child’s intellect, personality and social skills are formed by age 5 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Four Year Old Kindergarten (4K)?
4K is a voluntary, comprehensive child development program available to ALL four year old children in the Black River Falls School District. It is a play-based program designed to nurture social, emotional, and early literacy skills of four year old children. It does not take the place of kindergarten. There are partnerships between Black River Falls School District, childcare centers, preschools, and Western Dairyland Head Start that provide quality early childhood education for four year olds.
Who Can Participate?
The program is open to all children who reside in the Black River Falls School District who will be four years old on, or before, September 1st.
Where Classes Are Held?
Classes will be held at Forrest Street Early Learning Center, Western Dairyland Head Start/Learn and Play, Ho-Chunk Head Start area preschools, and child care centers in Black River Falls. Please see the back of this brochure for a complete listing.
When Classes Are Held?
The 4K Program will be a half day program (2 1/2 hours), and either mornings or afternoons will be available. Classes will run Monday through Thursday.
Who Will Be Teaching the Classes?
Instruction will be delivered by Department of Public Instruction (DPI) licensed teachers at all participating sites.
Will All Sites Follow the Same Curriculum?
All sites will offer the same curriculum, provided by the school district. The curriculum is specifically designed to meet the social, emotional, and educational needs of four year old children.
What is the Cost of 4K?
The program at multiple sites is made possible through existing funding from the Department of Public Instruction and Black River Falls School District. If you reside in the Black River Falls School District there is no cost to enroll, regardless of the site your child attends. However, there is a charge for extended child care services at participating sites.
Will Transportation Be Provided?
Yes, transportation will be provided following the existing BRF transportation guidelines. Transportation is available during the hours of 4K, not for wrap-around or extended care hours.
How Do I Enroll My Child in 4K?
You must register your child for 4K with the BRF School district. Registration meetings will be held hourly during Child Development Days on April 29th from 3-7pm and April 30th from 7:30am-3pm. If you are registering after April 30th, you can do so at Forrest Street Early Learning Center. Please bring your child’s birth certificate when registering for 4K. For more information please call Peggy Holmgreen at 284-9406.
What Is Child Development Days?
An opportunity for children ages 3-5 to be screened by Early Childhood professionals. The screening will provide you with the opportunity to learn more about the level of your child’s development. Please call Peggy Holmgreen to set up an appointment at 284-9406.
4K Registration Forms
Please fill out the following forms and bring them to one of the 4K registration meetings or if after April 30th, return the forms to Forrest Street Early Learning Center.
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