What is an integrated preschool program?
An integrated preschool classroom is comprised of both children who are
developing within age expectations and children who are in need of
specialized services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy and
physical therapy. Up to half the class can be on Individualized Educational
Plans (IEPs) for specialized services. The additional students in the class are
chosen through an open application process.
Children on IEPs have been placed in the program based upon an evaluation
and recommendations by the Wachusett Regional School District Special
Education Team.
What advantages does an integrated preschool have to offer?
An integrated preschool is part of the public school system that is designed
to be a typical preschool setting that specialized in targeting children’s
specific learning styles and diverse learning needs. Teachers and support
staff are highly trained in early childhood education and utilize a variety of
teaching techniques and strategies. Language, readiness skills, social skills,
science and literature are embedded within and are key components to the
curriculum. Activities are age appropriate, fun and exciting, and follow the
Massachusetts Guideline for Preschool Curriculum Experiences.
Does my child have to be toilet trained?
We recommend that children enrolled in our program be toilet trained and
capable of independent self-care in the bathroom, however, this is not an
enrollment requirement.
My child was enrolled as a three year old. What happens next
year?
If your child enters the program as a three year old and is not eligible to go
to kindergarten the following year, he/she has priority to return to the
program for the next school year without having to reapply. You are welcome
to change sessions or the number of days your child attends if you like for
the following year.
Do you offer multiple child discounts?
No. Each child is considered a separate enrollment.
Are siblings of children previously in the program given
enrollment priority?
Yes, siblings of students currently attending the program have priority. All
other slots are chosen by lottery.
Do you have a summer program?
Yes, but only for children on IEPs who are determined eligible by the
Preschool Educational Team.
My child is age eligible for kindergarten, but I don’t feel that
he/she is ready.
Unfortunately, it is a state regulation that we cannot accept children who
are kindergarten age-eligible even if you are choosing to keep your child out
of kindergarten for a year.
Are parents allowed to participate in the program?
Absolutely! We highly value and appreciate parent participation and
encourage parent volunteers. We welcome parents to share special
traditions, careers, and crafts. Parents are also welcome to read to the
children.
What is the daily schedule?
The WRSD Early Childhood Center’s Integrated Preschool Program has
morning sessions from 9:00-11:20 and afternoon sessions from 12:30-2:50.
The daily schedule includes indoor and outdoor play, circle time, small/large
group activities, snack, story, music, and movement.
How is my child’s progress reported?
Progress is reported in November, February and in June of each school year.
A detailed report will be sent home with your child.
Required documents / records
Registration
Physical form
Birth Certificate
Emergency medical card
Permission to photograph
Home Language Survey
Tuition
The program tuition for the 2021/22 school year is $17.00 per day. The
tuition is divided into ten monthly payments, payable September to June.
Payments are due on the first of each month.