YMCA Great Start Readiness Preschool Program
River City Scholars partners with the YMCA to offer the Great Start Readiness Program, Michigan's state-funded preschool for four-year-olds. Open to all children in the area, the program meets at River City Scholars during school hours at no cost to families.
The program helps students build the early skills and confidence they need for kindergarten. Review the information below to see if it's the right fit for your child.
Hours
Curriculum-Based Learning
Monday – Friday
8:00 a.m. – 3:20 p.m.
Before- and After-School Care
Early drop-off and late pick-up options may be available.
What to Expect
- NO Tuition Costs
- FREE YMCA Family Membership
- Nutritious Meals & Snacks
- Special Family Events & Support
- Accommodations for Children with Disabilities
- Free Child Screenings in Health & Development
Enrollment
Children must be four years of age by December 1st to qualify for the Preschool program.
Enroll your child for the 2026-27 school year. If you have questions on how to enroll your child, check out the YMCA's website.
For further assistance, contact Megan Centala at 616-885-5508 or mcentala@grymca.org.
Preschool Curriculum
The YMCA's teachers provide personalized attention to meet each child's needs through a hands-on curriculum built around eight content areas.
Literacy
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Art
Technology
Healthy Habits
Social & Moral Development
Summer Preschool at the Y
June 2 - August 15
Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Ages: 4 and 5 year olds
(completed a year of preschool or young fives)
Cost: $80 per day, weekly rates available
YMCA Preschool
Interested in learning more about the YMCA Great Start Readiness Preschool Program? Contact Aria Porraz at aporraz@grymca.org to schedule a tour.