Indianapolis, in. — The deadline for Indiana families to pre-register their four-year-olds for UPSTART, a free online kindergarten-readiness program, has been extended through the end of 2018, says Republican state senator from Oldenburg Jean Leising.
The Indiana General Assembly helped make UPSTART available in Indiana during the 2017 legislative session, passing House Enrolled Act 1004, which authorized funds for a technology-based, in-home early education program.
Through 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.
Families without internet or computer access are provided with a Chromebook and satellite internet. 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.
“This program is a fantastic opportunity for Indiana children and their families, as it provides the necessary resources to prepare children for kindergarten and jumpstart their educations free of charge,” Leising said. “I highly encourage all applicable families to pre-register their child if he or she meets the qualifications and is not already enrolled in a preschool program.”
Applicable children must have been born between Aug. 2, 2013, and Aug. 1, 2014, as well as live in an eligible county and start kindergarten in 2019. 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.
Eligible counties in Senate District 42 include Decatur, Fayette, Franklin, Henry, Ripley, Rush and Shelby counties.
Parents from eligible counties can attend one of the following trainings in 2018.
- Tuesday, Dec. 11, at 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. at Hampton Inn in Scottsburg, which is located at 1535 W. McClain Ave.
- Wednesday, Dec. 12, at 6 p.m. at Otterbein Public Library, which is located at 23 First St.
- Wednesday, Dec. 12, at 6 p.m. at Princeton Public Library, which is located at 124 S. Hart St.
UPSTART will provide alternative training dates in 2019 on an as-needed basis.
For more information on UPSTART and to find out if your family qualifies click here or call 800-669-4533.
