Beginning in the fall of 1998, a kindergarten through grade twelve program for academically gifted students will be implemented. In the middle 1980's Shelby was a leader in the state in establishing preschool programs for children, ages three and four, who were developmentally delayed. Later the focus included motor skills, social skills, and cognitive development also. In the early 1990's, Cleveland County was one of the first counties in the state to receive Smart Start funds for preschool students. A Smart Start class for at-risk students was opened in Shelby.
Parent involvement is encouraged in all preschool classes.