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In preschool, children build a strong foundation in social, pre-academic, and general life skills that will serve as the foundation for success once the official educational journey begins.
In preschool, children build a strong foundation in social, pre-academic, and general life skills that will serve as the foundation for success once the official educational journey begins.Research shows that children who graduate from preschool have improved academic readiness, lower incarceration rates, and higher earnings.
Much of the same can be said of Kindergarten, which provides youngsters with an opportunity to learn and practice the essential social, emotional, problem-solving, and study skills that will be used throughout his or her life.
Participation in Kindergarten also promotes self esteem and independence and a sense of curiosity that will prove beneficial in all levels of learning.
At District 60, we take pride in offering full day preschool and Kindergarten.
“Young children need to have devoted time to make friends, explore how things work, problem solve for themselves, and develop a love of learning,” noted Darlene Bermudez, the District’s Early Childhood Specialist. “Our preschool program does this and so much more!”
In a typical day, a preschooler can look forward to a consistent and active learning environment and well-balanced schedule of activities.
“Children engage in teacher-guided whole and small group lessons, outdoor activities, and child choice activities that foster independence and cooperation,” Specialist Bermudez explained.
Preschool also prepares children for Kindergarten.
“Our preschool program not only introduces letters, letter sounds, numbers, shapes and colors, we provide children with activities such as riding tricycles, pushing and pulling wagons, running, jumping, and climbing stairs. This is accomplished through a social environment that research shows promotes children starting Kindergarten with greater vocabularies, and pre-academic reading and mathematical skills.
“Preschool is a shared time involving families in their child's education. Together we prepare children for Kindergarten.”
For children who turn 3 by October 1 of a school year, the preschool application process opens in January and continues through the year, with placing depending on available space.
Children who turn 5 by October 1 are eligible to attend Kindergarten, with enrollment open throughout the year.
The application process is facilitated through www.EnrollD60.org.
For preschool, parents/guardian will upload a picture ID, child’s birth certificate, immunization records, proof of address (water, electric, gas, rent, or lease documents), and if applicable, a child’s Individualized Education Program.
At the beginning of the application process, a number will be assigned. This will be needed to reference your application.
“The first person you put as a guardian will be our point of contact,” Director Bermudez explained. “It’s important to answer all questions on the application, as applications with missed questions are deemed incomplete, which may delay processing.”
Every June, the Early Childhood Education starts the application review process, with placement letters sent out on July 30.
If you want your future Kindergarten student to attend your neighborhood elementary school, an in-person visit to the school is encouraged. Bring your photo ID and proof of address documents with you, along with the child's birth certificate and immunization record.
Those with questions are encouraged to call (719) 253-6014 or send an email to registration@pueblod60.org.
