Oakland Early Learning Center Now Offers Free GSRP Preschool for All Families
Finding the right preschool is one of the most important decisions parents make. That’s why we’re excited to announce that Oakland Early Learning Center is now offering the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP), Michigan’s free preschool program for four-year-olds.
Beginning Fall 2026, families in the Portage area can enroll their child in a high-quality preschool experience at no cost through Oakland Early Learning Center. Even better, all families are encouraged to apply, regardless of income level.
What Is GSRP?
The Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) is Michigan’s state-funded preschool program designed to help children build the skills they need to succeed in kindergarten and beyond. Through engaging, play-based learning experiences, children develop early literacy, math, science, social-emotional, and problem-solving skills in a nurturing classroom environment.
At Oakland Early Learning Center, our GSRP students learn through hands-on activities, exploration, creativity, and meaningful interactions with caring teachers. The goal isn’t just to prepare children academically—it’s to help them develop confidence, independence, friendships, and a lifelong love of learning.
The Best Part? Every Family Can Apply.
For years, many families assumed preschool assistance programs were only available to lower-income households. Today, that’s no longer the case.
Michigan’s PreK for All initiative has expanded access to GSRP, making free preschool available to families across a wide range of income levels. Families of all income levels are encouraged to apply. A higher household income does not automatically disqualify your child from receiving free preschool.
This means more families can take advantage of a high-quality preschool experience without worrying about expensive tuition costs.
Why Choose Oakland Early Learning Center for GSRP?
While free preschool is an incredible opportunity on its own, Oakland Early Learning Center offers something many preschool programs cannot: a long-term educational home for your child.
One Campus, One Community
Our GSRP program is located inside Oakland Academy, creating a seamless transition from preschool into kindergarten and beyond. Your child can begin building relationships, confidence, and familiarity with their learning environment from day one.
Small Classes and Personal Attention
We believe every child deserves to be known, supported, and encouraged as an individual. Our nurturing environment allows children to build strong relationships with teachers and classmates while receiving the attention they need to thrive.
Learning Through Play
Young children learn best when they are actively engaged. Our classrooms are designed to encourage curiosity, creativity, problem-solving, and exploration while helping children develop the foundational skills needed for future academic success.
Support for Working Families
As a full early learning center, we understand the realities of family schedules. Before- and after-school care options are available, helping make preschool more accessible and convenient for working parents.
Who Qualifies?
Your child may qualify for Oakland Early Learning Center’s GSRP program if they:
- Are a Michigan resident
- Turn 4 years old by December 1, 2026
- Complete the Kalamazoo County Pre-K application process
Apply Today
Enrollment for GSRP is now open, and we encourage interested families to begin the application process early.
When completing your Kalamazoo County Pre-K application, be sure to select Oakland Early Learning Center as your first-choice location. Our team is also available to answer questions, provide tours, and help families learn more about the program.
The preschool years lay the foundation for future success. With free tuition, caring teachers, hands-on learning, and a welcoming school community, there has never been a better time to give your child a strong start at Oakland Early Learning Center.
