Jonesboro, AR – JonesboroRightNow.com – Arkansas Early Learning (AEL) is accepting new enrollments at its three Jonesboro centers, providing local families with options for early childhood education and developmental support without breaking the bank.
AEL currently has openings at the following Jonesboro locations, with enrollment availability fluctuating by age group and center:
- Jessup Early Learning Center: Offers Head Start for children ages three to five.
- Geraldine Anderson Early Learning Center: Offers Early Head Start for infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children.
- Jonesboro Falls Early Learning Center: Offers Early Head Start for children from birth to age three.
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AEL provides no-cost Head Start and Early Head Start services to pregnant women and children from birth to age five. In addition to early childhood education, the program provides connections to external resources for enrolled families.
“We really focus on school readiness, as well as whole child development and family support,” said Kenishia Wallace, community partnerships manager for AEL. “The overall goal is to prepare children for kindergarten while still supporting the families that we serve”.
In addition to education, the organization facilitates health, nutrition, and development screenings. Wallace explained they work with local agencies to identify community resources, which AEL’s family service workers use to provide referrals for families needing extra support.
Program eligibility is determined by federal income guidelines, among other factors. However, Wallace said families with children in foster care or who are experiencing homelessness automatically qualify for the program. There is also a designated number of slots for families whose income exceeds standard guidelines.
To apply, parents must complete the following steps:
- Contact a local center directly or apply online at arearlylearning.org.
- Complete an eligibility screening with AEL staff.
- Provide the child’s birth certificate, proof of income (such as pay stubs or TANF), proof of residency, and current immunization records.
- Attend a scheduled enrollment and intake appointment.
- Placement is assigned based on eligibility and center availability.
AEL representatives also set up informational tables at local family outreach events and resource fairs to provide program information to residents.
“Our goal is definitely to ensure every eligible child has access to high-quality, early learning, and that the families have the support that they need for long-term success,” Wallace said.
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to clarify wording around eligibility and availability. In addition, the article removed reference to “monthly” outreach events to more accurately reference the frequency of those events.
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