ALBEMARLE COUNTY
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
BRIGHT STARS PROGRAM

To see an overview of the Bright Stars Program for 2008, please view our
FY 2008 Bright Stars Annual Report.

 What?

A grant from the Virginia Preschool Initiative has allowed Albemarle County, through a partnership between the Department of Social Services, the School Division and various community agencies and organizations, to develop a preschool program for four year-old children called Bright Stars.  The Bright Stars Program goal is to provide early learning experiences and comprehensive social supports for students and families that address risk factors that can lead to early academic failure.  The program is currently in its 13th year.  The schools hosting a Bright Stars Program are Agnor-Hurt, Cale, Greer, Red Hill, Scottsville, Stone-Robinson and Woodbrook.  Bright Stars is part of the Albemarle County Preschool Network which includes Head Start, Early Childhood Special Education and Title I.  Bright Stars also partners with two private preschools to serve additional children.
 

Why?

The Albemarle County School Board and Board of Supervisors support early intervention programs to assist students in achieving academic success in school. Consistent and comprehensive early interventions for student and families in quality preschool programs allow students and families to acquire the knowledge and skills that eliminate or reduce risk factors and academic failure.  Bright Stars uses a classroom approach that emphasizes active learning - children learning by doing, touching, feeling and acting.  Each classroom has a coordinator who works with families, teachers and community agencies to provide the support that families need to succeed.  Bright Stars Program Application

Implications

	Students will demonstrate readiness for Kindergarten through learning basic preschool skills within an interactive structured environment
	Parent involvement with the school will be fostered and increased
	Students will recognize school as a safe, secure learning environment
	Partnerships with community agencies and organizations will provide consistent and comprehensive services for families
	The transition to kindergarten and beyond will be smooth and seamless

Progress To Date

	Number of participating schools has increased from 1 to 7 in 12 years
	Partnerships have been established within the community to provide quality instruction, health services, social services and to meet other family needs, as appropriate
	Alumni of the Bright Stars Program receive follow-up services as needed
	Funds have been secured by the Department of Social Services to provide long-term, follow-up services for Bright Stars alumni and their families