Preschool Program

District 200 offers a preschool program for children three and four years old. This program for typically developing children is an extension of the popular preschool program that has been offered to children with disabilities since 1972. Classes are primarily comprised of typically developing three and four-year-olds, while including some children with special needs. The program is held at the Jefferson Preschool Center, 130 N. Hazelton, Wheaton.

A certified teacher and classroom aide help students develop the skills needed to have a successful kindergarten experience. Teachers use a developmentally appropriate curriculum that focuses on language, socialization, motor, and pre-academic skill development. A typical preschool day includes routines for arrival and departure, movement and music, calendar activities, story time, physical education, interest centers, snack time, and art. Library time, cooking activities, and field trips are also included in the program.

The program operates morning and afternoon sessions following the District 200 calendar with classes Tuesday through Friday. Morning sessions run from 9:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. and afternoon sessions from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Children must be toilet trained and at least three years old by September 1 to enroll for the fall session. A monthly fee is charged to cover the costs of operating the program.