The Beaufort County School District offers Pre-kindergarten programs at all elementary schools and early childhood centers.
District-wide developmental screenings are held each spring at all elementary school sites for preschool age children. Developmental screenings include vision, hearing, and speech & language by a team which includes a certified early childhood teacher.
As required by the South Carolina Department of Education, all children must be 4 years of age on or before September 1st. All children must be assessed individually using the DIAL4 (Developmental Indicators for the Assessment of Learning).
An Individual Student Selection Criteria Rating is also recommended by the South Carolina Department of Education to determine eligibility. Children are ranked in order of greatest need for participation in the program based on at-risk indicators.
Pre-Kindergarten Curriculum
The Beaufort County School District’s approach to our early childhood Pre-Kindergarten program is The Creative Curriculum for Preschool, the country’s leading scientifically based, comprehensive curriculum for programs serving children from birth through Kindergarten. The Creative Curriculum for Preschool is one of four curriculum models approved by the SC Department of Education. The 38 measurable goals and objectives of the Curriculum are aligned with the SC Pre-Kindergarten Early Learning Standards, and the National Head Start Framework.
The Curriculum guides teachers in designing a preschool program in which children learn important skills and content and develop social competence. Teachers guide learning in literacy, math, science, social studies, the arts, and technology, while also supporting children’s social/emotional development. The Curriculum emphasizes that children can learn in many different settings and through diverse activities. It honors creativity and respects the role that teachers play in making learning exciting and relevant for every child in their classroom.
The Beaufort County School District’s approach is designed to inspire teachers and teacher assistants, to help them create a high quality learning environment, and most of all, to support their important efforts as they open doors to successful learning. By providing the Creative Curriculum in every Pre-Kindergarten classroom, the Beaufort County School District has in place a comprehensive system that promotes positive outcomes for all children, including English-language learners, children with disabilities, and advanced learners.
