Statewide—Indiana families can pre-register their four-year-olds for Waterford UPSTART, a free online kindergarten-readiness program for low-income families, now through Friday, Nov. 15, according to State Sen. Jean Leising (R-Oldenburg).
Eligible counties in Senate District 42 include Decatur, Fayette, Franklin, Henry, Ripley, Rush and Shelby counties.
The Indiana General Assembly helped make Waterford UPSTART available in Indiana during the 2017 legislative session. On April 29, Gov. Holcomb signed House Enrolled Act 1001, which renewed the program for two more years.
Through Waterford UPSTART, children are taught early reading, math, and science through instructional hours, lessons, activities, books and animated songs. Participants follow their own personalized learning path, but must use the program at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week the year before entering kindergarten.
“I strongly encourage eligible families in Senate District 42 to consider this free program,” Leising said. “UPSTART provides children with the essential tools needed to begin kindergarten and offers families resources to support their child’s success.”
Families without internet or computer access are provided with a laptop and internet access. Additionally, families are partnered with a personal care representative who monitors each child’s progress. Access to live help by phone or email is available six days a week.
Eligible children must have been born between Aug. 2, 2014, and Aug. 1, 2015, must live in an eligible county and must start kindergarten in 2020. To qualify:
- A family of two must have an annual income of $20,625 or less;
- A family of three must have an annual income of $25,933 or less;
- A family of four must have an annual income of $31,242 or less;
- A family of five must have an annual income of $36,551 or less;
- A family of six must have an annual income of $41,859 or less;
- A family of seven must have an annual income of $47,168 or less; and
- A family of eight must have an annual income of $52,476 or less.
