If you’re a parent of young children living in Michigan, you’ve probably heard of the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP), also known as GSRP Preschool. This state-funded preschool program for four-year-olds focuses on social, physical, emotional, and cognitive development to help children prepare for kindergarten. If you’re interested in learning more about free preschool, let’s dive into the five things to know about signing up.
1. How to Find A GSRP Program Near Me
Believe it or not, finding a GSRP Preschool in your area is as easy as clicking a few buttons on your computer. Great Start to Quality is a team that helps strengthen early childhood education programs in Michigan by supporting childcare providers and families looking for care.
Search options for free preschool:
- Search by zip code
- Search by address
The first search brings up all organizations associated with the provided zip code. For example, searching a Waterford, MI, zip code brings up the Great Start Collaborative of Oakland County, allowing you to explore Head Start and GSRP Preschool options. The second search returns a list of all qualifying programs in a specified radius of an address, making it easier to see specific locations in your area.
2. Does Your Child Qualify for GSRP Preschool?
There are three main areas that determine if your child qualifies for free preschool through the GSRP program. Take a look and see if you’re eligible.
GSRP Eligibility Requirements:
- Residency: All children who attend GSRP Preschool must reside in Michigan. Children who live in bordering states, even if their parent(s)/guardian(s) work in Michigan, are not eligible.
- Age: The GSRP was designed to support children who are at higher risk of not succeeding in school compared to their peers during the year prior to entering kindergarten. This means that children must turn four years old on or before September 1 to be considered. However, families with children who will turn four after September 1 but on or before December 1 may request an early enrollment provision.
- Income: There is no income limit, but priority is given to families at or below 400% of the federal poverty limit.
Additional considerations include:
- Diagnosed disability or identified developmental delay
- Severe or challenging behavior
- Primary home language other than English
- Parent(s) with low educational attainment
- Abuse/neglect of child or parent
- Environmental risk
3. How to Apply to the GSRP in Michigan
Applying for free preschool with GSRP is quick and easy. Once you’ve found the program you wish to apply to, contact the GSRP preschool directly or click the GSRP application link on the program’s profile. If you need help completing your application or have questions about GSRP daycare, call the program’s contact number.
4. What Do I Need to Fill Out the GSRP Application?
- Your driver’s license or identification card
- Proof of your child’s birthday, such as a birth certificate
- Income information, such as copies of your pay stubs, W-4, or W-9
5. How Long Until I Hear Back About the GSRP Application?
Enrollment in GSRP preschool is based on eligibility criteria and when the applications are received. Applications submitted in the spring are typically contacted by May or June. During the summer, notifications are usually sent within a few weeks. Because children from lower-income families are prioritized, children may be placed on a waiting list depending on available space.
Michigan’s Great Start Readiness Program is helping ensure a strong foundation for children’s lifelong success. By offering free, high-quality early education experiences, GSRP gives Michigan’s four-year-olds the tools they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.
If you think your child may qualify, don’t wait to sign up for GSRP preschool. Finding a program near you and completing the application process is simple, and the benefits can make a lasting difference in your child’s future.