Martin University to open pre-K program for community

A new free preschool program is opening on Indianapolis’s east side. Martin University is launching the program Monday, September 9. Children 3 and 4 years old will be able to participate in the one-year program.

There will be two four-hour sessions, one in the morning from 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and one in the afternoon from 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

The pre-kindergarten program is supported by a three-year grant from the Urban League.

Dr. Rebecca Doane oversees the Care & Learning Center at Martin University. The center has been offering free child care for the school’s students.

“I'm just really excited about the program to be able to offer a play and research-based curriculum at a preschool for our 3 and 4-year-olds,” Doane said, “to be able to just not only provide for our students here, but also in the community, to be able to give our young kids a step up.”

Doane said class sizes for each session are capped at seven students due to state and federal laws on space, but she hopes to be able to expand in the future.

“I know that right now we’re small and we're wanting to expand, to be able to open it up and bring more in,” she said.

Those interested in the program can call 317-917-3960 or email kestes@martin.edu.

Enrollment requirements include: the child’s birth certificate, proof of residency, immunization records and a parent/guardian photo ID.

When all spots are filled up, Doane said children will be placed on a waitlist.

Contact WFYI All Things Considered newscaster and reporter Samantha Horton at shorton@wfyi.org.