Deadline Approaching For Cranford Preschool Program

CRANFORD, NJ — The Cranford public schools offer an inclusive half day preschool program called READY for 3- and 4-year-olds with special needs, and if extra spots are available, parents of toddlers without special needs may be picked via a lottery.

The READY program is a regular education preschool program that places children with special needs with their typical peers. The philosophy is based on the rationale that children learn through modeling and imitation and are motivated by other children.

According to the district, "By integrating students with disabilities into typical preschool classes, maximum growth and development is achieved for all children."

Children who will be 3 years old or 4 years old by Oct. 1 and are Cranford residents are eligible for READY. Applications can be submitted by clicking here no later than Jan. 13.

Because of the popularity of this program, there may be spots for non-disabled students, but it will be based on a lottery held Jan. 15. If your child is selected you will be notified by email shortly thereafter. If you are registering multiples, the district cannot guarantee all children will be selected.

The tuition charge for the program is $4,500 or $450 per month. First and last month's tuition is due upon acceptance into the program and is non refundable. Cranford does NOT provide transportation to students in this program.

For additional information or if you have any questions, you may call The Office of Special Services at (908)709-6217.

To find out about Cranford's kindergarten program, click here.

Find out about the school district here.

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