Oxford, Mississippi, September 19, 2025
News Summary
The Oxford School District announces the introduction of its new pre-kindergarten program for 3-year-olds, called the 3-K program, set to begin in the next school year. This initiative expands early education options, complementing the existing 4-K program. The 3-K program aims to provide an enriched learning environment focused on foundational skills critical for children’s educational development. Parents will soon receive information on enrollment and eligibility, alongside a commitment to qualified educators in early childhood education.
Oxford, Mississippi – The Oxford School District (OSD) is set to launch a new pre-kindergarten program for 3-year-olds, known as the “3-K” program, starting with the 2024-25 school year. This initiative marks the first time OSD will offer a pre-kindergarten program specifically designed for children aged three.
Previously, the only pre-kindergarten option available in the district was the 4-K program, which catered exclusively to children who are four years old. The introduction of the 3-K program is expected to provide an enriched early learning environment for younger children, promoting foundational skills before they enter formal education at the kindergarten level.
The Oxford 4-K program transitioned to the Oxford Early Childhood Center in 2022, which is housed in the former Oxford Elementary School building. This move aimed to place a stronger emphasis on early childhood development and to create a dedicated space for young learners. The establishment of the 3-K program will complement the existing 4-K program, further enhancing early childhood education options within the Oxford School District.
The district’s decision to implement the 3-K program is aligned with nationwide trends advocating for early childhood education as a means to improve educational outcomes. Research consistently shows that early learning experiences significantly contribute to a child’s academic readiness and long-term success in school. OSD administrators are optimistic that the new program will provide children an advantageous start to their educational journey.
Parents and guardians within the Oxford School District will soon receive information regarding enrollment procedures and eligibility criteria for the 3-K program. As it stands, the program aims to cater to the diverse needs of families in the community, offering flexible learning opportunities that foster social, emotional, and cognitive growth.
In conjunction with this initiative, the district has emphasized the importance of qualified educators in the early childhood sector. Training and professional development for teachers involved in the 3-K program will be prioritized to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide high-quality education for their students.
With the introduction of the 3-K program in 2024, Oxford School District is taking a significant step forward in its commitment to supporting children’s educational development right from the very start. By expanding early childhood education opportunities, the district hopes to set a strong foundation that will benefit students throughout their academic careers.
Background Context
The Oxford School District has been focused on enhancing its educational offerings in recent years. The transition of the 4-K program to the Oxford Early Childhood Center was a strategic move to concentrate resources and enhance learning experiences for young children. The district’s commitment to early education is evident in the upcoming launch of the 3-K program, which reflects a growing understanding of the importance of early childhood development in education systems across the nation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3-K program?
The 3-K program is a new pre-kindergarten program for 3-year-olds set to launch in the Oxford School District for the 2024-25 school year.
When will the 3-K program start?
The 3-K program will start in the 2024-25 school year.
What was available before the 3-K program?
Prior to the introduction of the 3-K program, the only pre-kindergarten program available in the district was the 4-K program.
Where is the 4-K program located now?
The 4-K program transitioned to the Oxford Early Childhood Center, located in the former Oxford Elementary School building, in 2022.
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Key Features of the 3-K Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Target Age Group | Children aged 3 years |
| Start Date | 2024-25 school year |
| Previous Programs | 4-K program for 4-year-olds |
| Location | Oxford Early Childhood Center, former Oxford Elementary School building |
| Focus | Early childhood development and education |
| Teacher Development | Priority for qualified educators and training |
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Additional Resources
- DJournal: Oxford School District to Run Pilot 3-K Program
- WMTW: Oxford Hills Elementary School Merger First Day
- Oxford Eagle: Lafayette Schools to Provide Supplies
- Sun Journal: Oxford Hills Learns of 1M Cut in State Education Funding
- Hotty Toddy: Oxford School District Teachers of the Year
- Wikipedia: Early Childhood Education
- Google Search: Early Childhood Education Benefits
- Google Scholar: Early Childhood Education
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Early Childhood Education
- Google News: Oxford School District
Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER
The OXFORD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOxford.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Oxford, Lafayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Oxford Film Festival, Double Decker Arts Festival, and University of Mississippi football games. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the University of Mississippi, plus leading businesses in education and retail that power the local economy such as Ole Miss Athletics and Square Books. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
