The Jordan-Elbridge Central School District plans to offer a universal prekindergarten program beginning in September.

District officials will receive government funding allowing them to develop a program that will be open to eligible 4-year-old children who live in the school district.

Children have to be 4 years old by Saturday, Dec. 1, to be eligible.

Parents can contact Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Susan Gorton at 689-8500 ext. 5040.

Applications will be accepted until July 30.

Students will be selected on a first-come basis.

The half-day morning and afternoon program may include up to 18 students, a teacher and a teaching assistant.

The program is free and will follow the regular school calendar, 180 days.

Parents must provide their own transportation.

The preschool programs are designed to help children socialize and communicate with others, and they help the children get ready for kindergarten.

The program will include activities such as reading, writings, listening and speaking.