Pierce Terrace Launches Universal PK

Pierce Terrace Elementary School (PTES) was the first to participate in the Department of Defense Education Activity's (DoDEA) official Universal Pre-K program for the 2024–2025 academic year on Monday, August 19. This was the start of a large-scale project to give children of military personnel stationed at bases worldwide free, first-rate Pre-K education.

PTES had been selected as the inaugural site for the Universal Pre-K program, setting the stage for a broader rollout in the coming years. This initiative will help all eligible children (those who turn four by September 1) will be able to receive free full-day Pre-K instruction. This aligns with DoDEA's mission to provide children with military ties with exceptional educational options wherever they may be stationed.

Principal Battey stated, “Universal Pre-Kindergarten is an opportunity to offer an expanded educational experience to our families. I am proud of the work our teachers, educational aids, and support staff have done in preparation for this school year and our expanded program.  We are excited to welcome our new students into the school and watch them flourish in their learning over the year.”

The program features a comprehensive curriculum encompassing language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, & social-emotional learning. The goal is to establish an inclusive, developmentally appropriate learning environment under the direction of early childhood educators with certification.

Jodina Tyson, the Pre-K teacher, stated, “I’m delighted to serve our military families as a combat veteran’s wife.”

Its main features are the program's organized learning environment, helpful materials, and community involvement. Lunch will be provided in the classroom, family-style, as part of the full-day PK program. Family-style eating is a meal service that lets kids help themselves by choosing what and how much to eat. Children can serve themselves when they are given little pitchers, fewer servings on service plates, and adult supervision. Family-style dining is recommended by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a best practice.

The community has reacted enthusiastically to the introduction of the Universal Pre-K program. Many military families see it as an essential tool that provides continuity and stability during numerous relocations.

“I’m excited about the Universal Pre-K program; it’s going to be an adventure,” stated veteran Pre-K teacher Patricia Jolly. 

The successful rollout of the Universal Pre-K program is only the start of DoDEA's larger intention to eventually extend the program to additional military installations. DoDEA representatives are keeping a close eye on PTES's development to guide the later stages of the implementation, which aims to provide Universal Pre-K to all families with a military connection.

With further growth, this program will undoubtedly be crucial in assisting young children from military families with their social and academic development, giving them the tools and self-assurance they need to excel in school and beyond.