The Preschool Program

A good preschool is one that meets the educational and developmental needs of the children it serves. At CPS, children are given the opportunity to play alone and in groups. There is active play balanced by quiet activities both indoors and out. We encourage creative expression through language, movement, listening, and discussion. We also encourage children to learn through sensory experiences and play materials with different textures.

A typical school day allows time for free play such as creative work with paint, play dough, crayons, etc. There is a mixture of stories, music, science, dramatic play and group games, both indoors and out. In addition, there is a snack time with nutritious snacks and drinks.

Our program goals are the following:
1. Allow time for the child to explore and discover.
2. Arrange material to encourage independence in getting toys and supplies and build responsibility for putting them away.
3. Provide tools for creative expression.
4. Offer a peer group of the same age.
5. Provide security of being accepted away from home.

Classes

Classes are offered for two, three, and four/five year old children who have reached the appropriate age by October 1st.

The two year old classes each meet one morning a week. A maximum of 12 students are accepted in each of the three classes offered.

The three year old classes each meet two mornings a week. A maximum of 16 students are accepted in each of the three classes offered.

The four and five year old classes each meet two to three days per week. Two morning classes and one afternoon class are offered. A maximum of 18 students are accepted in each class.

Hours

Preschool hours are 8:45-11:30 a.m. and 12:45 to 3:15 p.m. The two-year-old classes end at 11:00 a.m. for the first and second quarter, and then extend to 11:15 a.m. for the third and fourth quarter. Morning classes for three to five year olds are offered at different times, so parents have flexibility to choose class times that coordinate with elementary school schedules. Classes are offered from 8:45 to 11:15 and 9:00 to 11:30.

Visitors to the preschool

Visitors must sign in on a paper found on the parent information board in the hall and must wear a visitor badge to identify themselves. The visitor badge is located next to the visitor sign-in sheet.

Choosing the right preschool