• CMS Pre-K Programs provide a rich, child-centered, literacy-focused program

    that incorporates and encourages regular parent involvement.

       

     

     

Bright Beginnings

  • The Bright Beginnings Pre-K Program serves 3,240 eligible four-year-old students in 63 Charlotte Mecklenburg elementary schools. Eligibility for participation in the Bright Beginnings program is determined through a screening process. Children who demonstrate the greatest need are placed first. The placement process continues until all spaces are filled.

North Carolina Pre-K Program

  • The NC Pre-K Program serves an additional 1,418 children in 25 high-quality, community-based childcare centers. Eligibility for NC Pre-K is based on family size, gross income, and other qualifying indicators.  

    Early Childhood Education Center

What is the difference between the programs?

  •   NC Pre-K Program Bright Beginnings Program
    Location High-Quality Child Development Centers CMS Elementary Schools
    Length of Day 6.5 hours 6.5 hours
    Before/Aftercare Available in all centers for a fee Only available in 2 CMS schools for a fee
    Eligibility Family income and other risk factors Demonstrated educational need and family income if necessary
    Class Size 18 18
    Schedule CMS School Calendar CMS School Calendar
    Curriculum Creative Curriculum Creative Curriculum
    Breakfast Free Free
    Lunch Free $2.40 unless approved for free or reduced price lunch
    Transportation May be available, depending on distance to center Guaranteed to home school
    Teacher Certification BK License BK License