Roanoke County Preschools Grow Beyond School Buildings

It’s no secret that one of the keys to a successful start to a child’s education is time spent in a preschool program. For years, Roanoke County Public Schools has been providing a preschool program for special needs and economically disadvantaged students in Roanoke County. The major challenge to expanding the program was adding classrooms to allow for more preschool students.

Instead of working to build additional space at individual schools, the Roanoke County Preschool Program has partnered with two HoneyTree Early Learning centers (Vinton and at Oak Grove) to provide preschool instruction for 28 additional students across the county. This program, funded by the Virginia Department of Education, is one of only three such programs in Virginia and the only program of its kind outside of northern Virginia. Students are taught by teachers certified by the Virginia Department of Education following the Roanoke County Preschool Program curriculum.

“We’ve wanted to expand our preschool program for several years, but have not been able to locate the space to do so,” said program coordinator Sharon Sheppard. “By partnering with HoneyTree, we can help so many more children get a great jump start on their education,” Sheppard added.

“HoneyTree is delighted to partner with Roanoke County to provide preschoolers with high-quality education to launch their academic careers the right way,” said HoneyTree CEO Tina Kitchens. “HoneyTree is a strong supporter of preparing young children for school, and we take pride in knowing Roanoke County entrusts us to make a difference in the lives of preschoolers and their families.”

The Roanoke County Preschool Program is nationally accredited with students in nearly every Roanoke County elementary school and two private preschool centers. Roanoke County residents who are interested in applying for the preschool program should contact Sharon Sheppard at 540-562-3900.