Start Your
Child's Journey
Everything you need to know to get started on your child’s Smart Start journey
Eligibility Requirements
**Age requirements were updated on May 21, 2026, and will apply beginning with the 2026–2027 school year**
A child must:
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Be three (3) years old on or before August 1 of the enrolling school year
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Not turn six (6) years old on or before August 1 of the enrolling school year
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Be fully potty trained by Open House
Schedule, Enrollment, Tuition & Scholarships
General Program Schedule:
Smart Start operates on a half-day schedule from 8:00am - 12:00pm, with drop-off beginning at 7:45am.
The program runs from September - May with the first day of the 2026-27 school year being August 31.
Smart Start follows the Russell County school system's calendar in regards to holidays, professional development days, weather, breaks, etc.
Enrollment Options:
Smart Start offers three enrollment options:
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2 days per week (Monday and Wednesday)
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2 days per week (Tuesday and Thursday)
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4 days per week (Monday - Thursday)
Tuition and Fees:
A $200 annual registration & supply fee is required to secure a child's spot in the program. This fee is non-refundable and supports classroom setup, art and sensory materials, and enrichment resources.
Tuition payments are required by the 15th of each month for nine (9) months (September - May).
Tuition rates are based on chosen enrollment:
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2 days per week (M/W or T/TH): $212.50 per month
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4 days per week (Mon - Thur): $425.00 per month
Scholarships:
We are grateful for generous friends and community partners who make it possible for us to offer partial scholarships to students. These scholarships help reduce financial barriers and expand access to quality early learning opportunities for families in our community.
Scholarships may only be applied toward tuition and cannot be used toward registration or supply fees. Funding is limited, and all applications are carefully reviewed by the scholarship committee.
Program Availability
Registration opens in the spring for the following academic school year. Enrollment begins with current students, followed by the waitlist. Any remaining openings will then be made available to the public.
Families are encouraged to monitor our website and the ArtWorks Facebook page for the most up-to-date information on enrollment timelines and program availability.
Questions regarding enrollment or program availability may be directed to admin@artworksrc.org
For Confirmed Incoming Students ONLY
Please Note: This section is reserved for students who have received an email invitation to register for Smart Start Squad. If you have not received an invitation and believe your child should be eligible to attend, please contact us at admin@artworksrc.org for assistance or clarification.
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