This school year, seven south Charlotte elementary schools will be home to some of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools' pre-kindergarten Bright Beginnings classes.

A Title I program for disadvantaged children, Bright Beginnings is designed to provide early literacy skills to help them be successful in kindergarten and beyond.

National studies have shown that students who attend preschool are more likely to graduate high school, attend college and become productive citizens.

During talks about budget cuts earlier this year, school board members debated whether to close Bright Beginnings indefinitely.

Dozens of local advocates, teachers and politicians rallied behind the program. Upon receiving additional funding from the city and county, CMS saved the program, however, all five of the pre-K class centers closed.

CMS spokeswoman Lauren Bell said they reconciled by incorporating some Bright Beginnings classes in elementary schools across the district.

Seven of the 13 elementary schools are located in south Charlotte: Smithfield, Beverly Woods, McAlpine, Montclaire, Pinewood, Rama and Sedgefield.

Smithfield Elementary will house four classes for the first time.

To participate in the full-day program, 4-year-olds must be screened, which occurs at the former Smith International Academy of Languages building off Tyvola Road, where Bright Beginnings has moved its headquarters.

CMS's pre-kindergarten programs, including the "More at Four" program, serve more than 4,000 students.

CMS schools open for students Aug. 25, while Bright Beginnings classes have staggered entry around Labor Day, Sept. 5.

Bell said there are still spots available.