When most families think of East Shore Leadership Academy, they think of our tuition-free K–8 program where students learn to lead. What many families don’t realize is that the East Shore journey can begin even earlier.
East Shore Leadership Academy is proud to offer the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP), Michigan’s free preschool program for four-year-olds. Designed to help children build the academic, social, and emotional skills needed for kindergarten success, GSRP provides families with access to a high-quality preschool experience at no cost.
If you’re looking for a preschool that will help your child gain confidence, make friends, and develop a love of learning, East Shore’s GSRP program may be the perfect place to start.
What Is GSRP?
The Great Start Readiness Program, commonly known as GSRP, is Michigan’s state-funded preschool program for four-year-olds. The program is designed to prepare children for kindergarten by helping them develop important early learning, communication, problem-solving, and social skills through engaging, age-appropriate experiences.
Children learn through exploration, play, collaboration, and hands-on activities while building the foundation they’ll need for future academic success.
Research consistently shows that quality preschool experiences help children enter kindergarten more prepared, confident, and ready to learn. GSRP was created to give Michigan children that strong start.
The Best News? Families of All Income Levels Can Apply.
One of the biggest misconceptions about GSRP is that it is only available to certain income levels.
Today, Michigan has expanded access to preschool, and families across a wide range of income levels are encouraged to apply. Many parents are surprised to learn that they may qualify even if they assumed they earned too much to participate. The first step is simply completing the application process and exploring available opportunities.
That means more local families can access a high-quality preschool experience without the burden of private preschool tuition.
Why Choose East Shore’s GSRP Program?
Choosing a preschool is about more than finding a place for your child to spend the day. It’s about finding a place where they can grow, learn, and feel supported.
At East Shore Leadership Academy, our preschool program reflects the same values that guide our K–8 school community.
A Safe and Supportive Environment
Children learn best when they feel safe, valued, and encouraged. Our team works hard to create a welcoming classroom environment where children can develop confidence, independence, and positive relationships with their peers and teachers.
Learning Through Exploration
Young learners are naturally curious. Our GSRP classroom provides opportunities for children to explore, discover, create, and problem-solve through meaningful, hands-on experiences that make learning fun and engaging.
Caring Educators
Our preschool team is committed to helping every child succeed. Through encouragement, guidance, and individualized support, children build the skills they need to thrive both in preschool and beyond.
A Seamless Transition Into Kindergarten
One of the unique benefits of East Shore’s GSRP program is the opportunity for children to become familiar with the school community before kindergarten begins.
Families who choose to continue their educational journey at East Shore benefit from a smooth transition into kindergarten within the same caring school environment. Students become comfortable with the building, routines, and school culture while parents establish relationships with staff and fellow families.
Building Leaders From the Very Beginning
At East Shore Leadership Academy, leadership development doesn’t begin in middle school—it begins with helping children develop confidence, responsibility, independence, and strong character from an early age.
Our mission is to develop future leaders through a strong academic foundation and high moral character. While our youngest learners may not be leading classrooms just yet, they are already learning important skills like communication, cooperation, problem-solving, and self-confidence that will serve them throughout their educational journey.
Give Your Child a Great Start
The preschool years are filled with incredible growth and development. East Shore’s GSRP program provides children with the opportunity to build friendships, develop new skills, and prepare for kindergarten in a supportive and engaging environment.
If your child will be four years old and you’re exploring preschool options, now is the perfect time to learn more about East Shore Leadership Academy’s GSRP program.
Because every great leader starts somewhere—and for many children, that journey can begin right here at East Shore.