PENNSYLVANIA PRE-K COUNTS
A Strong Start for School and Life
Carlisle Early Education Center proudly offers Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts, a state-funded preschool program that provides eligible children with a high-quality early learning experience at no tuition cost.
Our experienced educators provide a nurturing, engaging classroom where children build confidence, independence, friendships, and the academic and social-emotional skills they need for a successful transition to kindergarten.
Tuition-Free for Eligible Families
Kindergarten Ready
Keystone STARS 4
WHO MAY QUALIFY?
Is My Child Eligible for Pre-K Counts?
Pre-K Counts is designed for Pennsylvania children who may benefit from a high-quality preschool experience before entering kindergarten. Eligibility is based on your child’s age, household circumstances, and current state program requirements.
Because funded spaces are limited, completing an application does not guarantee placement. Our enrollment team will help you understand the current requirements and application process.
Your Child May Qualify If:
Eligibility Does Not Guarantee Placement
Pre-K Counts spaces are limited. CEEC will review completed applications and supporting documents before confirming eligibility and placement.
LEARNING AT CEEC
Preparing the Whole Child for Kindergarten
Our Pre-K Counts classroom supports every area of development through a thoughtful balance of teacher-guided instruction, child-initiated exploration, classroom learning centers, small-group activities, outdoor play, and meaningful hands-on experiences.
Early Literacy
Stories, conversations, writing experiences, letter knowledge, and early reading skills help children become confident communicators and emerging readers.
Math
Counting, patterns, measurement, shapes, sorting, and problem-solving experiences help children develop strong mathematical thinking.
Science & Discovery
Observation, investigation, questioning, experimentation, and hands-on exploration encourage curiosity and an understanding of the world.
Social-Emotional Growth
Children practice friendship skills, cooperation, communication, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and confidence in a caring classroom community.
Creative Expression
Art, music, movement, dramatic play, and imaginative experiences give children meaningful ways to explore ideas and express themselves.
Independence & Readiness
Daily routines, self-help skills, group participation, decision-making, and responsibility help children prepare confidently for kindergarten.
A DAY AT CEEC
A Typical Day in Our Pre-K Counts Classroom
From 8:00 AM–4:00 PM, each day is thoughtfully planned to balance learning, nutritious meals, outdoor exploration, rest, creativity, and meaningful experiences that prepare children for kindergarten.
AM Arrival & Breakfast
Children arrive,
enjoy breakfast,
greet friends,
and begin their day
Learning Centers
Children explore hands-on learning centers that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and independent discovery.
Teacher-Guided Learning
Teachers lead engaging literacy, math, science, and social-emotional learning experiences in small and whole groups.
Outdoor Play
Children build strength, coordination, and friendships through active outdoor play and exploration.
Lunch
Children enjoy a nutritious CACFP-approved lunch in a relaxed and social classroom environment.
Rest Time
A quiet rest period helps children recharge for a productive afternoon of learning and play.
Afternoon Snack
A healthy afternoon snack provides energy before afternoon activities and classroom exploration.
Afternoon Centers
Children revisit classroom centers, creative projects, music, movement, and enrichment activities.
Home Time
Children gather their belongings, celebrate the day’s accomplishments, and head home ready to share what they learned.
THE PRE-K COUNTS EXPERIENCE
A Strong Partnership with Families
Our teachers work closely with families throughout the school year to support each child’s learning, development, attendance, and successful transition to kindergarten.
Qualified
Educators
Caring teachers provide purposeful instruction, engaging classroom experiences, and individualized support for young learners.
Individualized Learning
Teachers observe children’s progress and use what they learn to plan experiences that support individual strengths, interests, and needs.
Family Communication
Regular communication helps families remain informed, involved, and connected to their child’s classroom experiences and progress.
Kindergarten Transition
Children and families receive support as they prepare for the routines, expectations, and exciting transition into kindergarten.
HOW TO APPLY
Getting Started Is Simple
Our enrollment team will guide your family through each step of the Pre-K Counts application process, help you understand the required documents, and answer questions along the way.
STEP 1
Contact CEEC
Contact our enrollment team to learn about availability, eligibility requirements, and application timelines.
STEP 2
Complete the Application
Complete your child’s application and provide household and eligibility information.
STEP 3
Submit Required Documents
Submit proof of age, residency, household income, and any required supporting documents.
STEP 4
Enrollment Decision
We’ll notify your family about eligibility, placement, or waitlist status and explain the next steps.
QUESTIONS?
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts? Here are answers to the questions families ask us most often.
READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?
See Whether Pre-K Counts Is Right for Your Family
Contact our enrollment team to ask about eligibility, required documents, available spaces, and the next application period.
Pre-K Counts spaces are limited.