The preschool programs at all three Russell County elementary schools have earned the highest level of recognition from the Kentucky Department of Education.
Jamestown Elementary, Russell Springs Elementary and Salem Elementary have each received a Kentucky All STARS Level 5 rating, the highest performance level awarded through the state’s preschool quality recognition system.
The Kentucky Department of Education congratulated the district for its efforts to ensure state-funded preschool students have access to high-quality teaching and learning environments.
Russell County Schools Preschool Director Bridget Smith says everyone was excited Monday morning when they learned all three schools had earned the prestigious Level 5 designation.
Smith explained that the Kentucky All STARS program evaluates preschool programs using a comprehensive rating system designed to measure quality in several key areas.
She says the achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of preschool teachers, instructional assistants, school administrators and support staff at Jamestown Elementary, Russell Springs Elementary and Salem Elementary.
Smith says earning the state’s highest preschool rating is truly a collaborative accomplishment involving educators, administrators, parents and the entire Russell County community. She says the Level 5 designation gives families confidence that their children are receiving a high-quality early childhood education that prepares them for future success.
According to Smith, strong preschool programs help children develop language, math and social skills while improving attention, behavior and long-term academic achievement.
She is also excited about the district’s transition to a four-day preschool program, which begins with the start of the new school year on Wednesday, August 12.
The Level 5 recognition will remain in place through August 1, 2029, further highlighting Russell County Schools’ commitment to providing outstanding early childhood education.