Denhamtown School expected a total population of 160 students when everybody reported for the first full day on Aug. 12. Half of the student body reported on Monday, and the other half reported on Tuesday.

The school’s pre K3 program is beginning its second year. Denhamtown’s pre-K4 program is in its 15th year.

Denhamtown Principal Barbara Greely said pre-K3 is vital to development.
“Absolutely, it is something that is needed. It gives the children a firm foundation for what we’re learning,” Greely said. “We’re trying to prepare them early. Most school systems in the state don’t take in 3-year-olds. Bogalusa City Schools is one of the few districts in the state that has a pre-K3 program.”
Greely said Denhamtown is working closely with four other centers locally to help children get a leg up on learning. She said the other four centers are Bogalusa Head Start, Sandy’s Kidz, Kidz Choice and Agape Child Care.
“Denhamtown is in a cohort with the other centers and using the same curriculum and standards,” Greely said. “We meet monthly and discuss student growth.”
Greely said it is imperative to reach children early in life.
“It is challenging to get them in that learning mode that is more structured than what they’re used to,” Greely said. “By doing it early, they’ll be better prepared for kindergarten. We teach academics but also social skills.”
Northshore Charter School began its third year on Monday. School officials said 550 students reported, an increase of 130 students. The school houses kindergarten through sixth grade. The high school has ninth, 10th and 11th grades.
Bogalusa City Schools and Annunciation Catholic School reported back for classes on Aug. 6 while Washington Parish Schools began on Aug. 7.