About Our Program

The four year old preschool is an integrated preschool located at Mary Welsh Elementary. For the 2024-2025 school year four year old preschool program will hold two sessions. Both will be held daily on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. One session will run from 8:15 am to 11:15 am and the second will run from 12:20-3:20 pm. The 4 year old program follows the school calendar which includes all early dismissals and no school days. To attend preschool, students must turn 4 before September 15th. State Wide Voluntary Preschool Program Grant funds 10 hours of weekly instruction. Tuition for 4 year olds is $60 per month, which covers the additional hours beyond the State Wide Voluntary Preschool Program Grant. These hours are optional.

Philosophy

Our philosophy is to include all children in the least restrictive environment. Teachers and staff provide opportunities for hands-on learning to all students through child directed play guided by the Creative Curriculum. 

Who can attend 4 year old preschool? Students who turn 4 before September 15th of the current academic year.

How much does it cost to attend 4 year old preschool if your child is 4? The SWVPPS grant funds 10 hours of weekly instruction. Tuition for 4 year olds is $60 per month, which covers the additional hours beyond the State Wide Voluntary Preschool Program Grant. These hours are optional.

What is the SWVPP grant? It is a grant funded by the state of Iowa which allows us to provide 10 hours of free preschool for students who are four years old. Click here for more information about the grant.

Is tuition assistance available? Yes, tuition assistance is available for qualifying families through Iowa County Empowerment. Please contact Mr. Zirkel for information regarding assistance.

Are there additional fees? Yes, will be a one time fee at registration for supplies. You will also need to pay for hot meals through the district lunch program. Assistance is also available for our lunch program.

What time is drop off? Drop off begins at 8:10 am and 12:10 pm at the classroom door. A parent or guardian must drop off their child daily. This is a requirement of QPPS.

What will be the teacher/child ratio? Our classroom maximum capacity is 20 students. There is one lead teacher and one associate. More associates may be in the classroom as needed for specific student needs.

Do you go on field trips? Yes, hands-on learning is the best way to learn! We enjoy visits to Lake Iowa, Wilson's Apple Orchard, Iowa City Children's Museum, Williamsburg post office, Williamsburg fire station, Marengo Memorial Hospital, Genoa Bluffs Pumpkin Farm and much more!