ASHEVILLE, NC, March 2012 - Eliada's Child Development Center is currently accepting applications for NC Pre-K, a kindergarten readiness initiative that is proven to help four year olds gain basic skills needed for success in elementary school. Children not currently in care are eligible to apply for the program, which is in many cases free to qualifying families.

"We recently received approval to open the program up to more children who need this type of care," said Tracey McCrain, Eliada's Child Development Director. "If parents are interested in enrolling their children in Eliada's NC Pre-K program, I strongly encourage them to act quickly. These vacancies are rare."

Eliada places a high priority on serving children who are "at-risk." A child is considered to be "at-risk" if the child's family is at or below 75% of the state median income level or if a disability has been identified. Enrollment is also open to students who have limited English proficiency, developmental differences, chronic health conditions, or a parent who is an active service personnel.

NC Pre-K classes operate on a regular school calendar and are designed to address emotional and social development, physical health, language development, and cognitive functioning. Teachers are highly qualified and hold a minimum of a BA/BS degree as well as specific early childhood credentials. Through incorporation of indoor and outdoor learning environments, students participate in active learning experiences to foster a lifetime love of education.

Parents interested in learning more about Eliada's NC Pre-K program should contact Assistant Child Development Director Tonia Reed at 828.259.5374 or treed@eliada.org.

About Eliada
Eliada is a 108 year old non-profit agency serving North Carolina's children and families. Founded in 1903 by Dr. Lucius B. Compton as a home for women and children, Eliada's full service continuum includes COA-accredited Child Development Services (Pre School, After School, Summer Camp, NC Pre-K); Residential and Day Treatment for children and adolescents; Foster Care and Therapeutic Foster Care; and Therapeutic Recreation programming. Learn more about Eliada's history and services by visiting Eliada.org. The agency enters its second century with pride, committed to the fulfillment of its mission statement: Helping Children Succeed.