The Cedar Rapids Community School District (CRCSD) is excited to announce it is making significant updates to its preschool program for the 2025-26 school year. These changes will expand access, increase enrollment, and ensure the long-term sustainability of high-quality early childhood education for families across the district. Registration for the CRCSD 4-year-old Preschool Program opens this Friday, February 28, at 6:00 AM online and in-person at Truman Early Learning Center from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

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Enhancing Early Childhood Education

The revised preschool model focuses on expanding opportunities while providing equitable, high-quality learning experiences for young children. By growing to nine locations throughout the district, we’re significantly improving accessibility for families in all neighborhoods.

“Our strategic offerings reflect our commitment to providing exceptional early learning opportunities that support children’s growth, families’ needs, and our district’s long-term educational excellence,” said Dr. Tawana Grover, Superintendent of Cedar Rapids Community School District. “We know that early childhood education sets the foundation for lifelong learning, and we are determined to ensure access for more students than ever before.”

Key Changes to the CRCSD Preschool Program:

  • Preschool is open to children who will be 4 years old on or before September 15, 2025.
  • Free half-day 4-year-old preschool at multiple elementary schools and Truman Early Learning Center, with wrap-around care options available through partnerships with Head Start and Champions.
  • Tuition-based full-day 4-year-old preschool option at Truman Early Learning Center for $325 per month.
  • Both half-day and full-day programs are taught by highly qualified certified teachers, ensuring consistent educational quality.
  • Expanding preschool enrollment to over 1,000 students by ensuring equitable access across the district and offering options that support working parents.

Preschool Locations for 2025-26:

  • Half-Day with Wrap-Around Care*: Cedar River Academy (Head Start), Maple Grove Elementary (Champions), West Willow Elementary (Champions), Wright Elementary (Champions), Grant Wood (TBD), Kenwood Leadership Academy (TBD), Johnson STEAM Academy (Head Start), Hiawatha Elementary (Champions), Viola Gibson Elementary (Champions).
    *Wrap-around care providers are tentative and subject to change
  • Truman Early Learning Center: Will offer both half-day and full-day preschool options with wrap-around care available.

Sustaining the Future of Early Childhood Education

As temporary Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funding concludes, CRCSD is proactively redesigning our preschool program to ensure long-term sustainability while expanding services. Despite the challenges of limited state funding, we’re implementing creative solutions that allow us to maintain our commitment to high-quality early childhood education while serving more families than ever before

“Early childhood education has been a high priority in our legislative advocacy, but state funding remains uncertain for the 2025-2026 school year,” said Board President Cindy Garlock. “We took a proactive approach to maintain access to our preschool program. These changes help ensure the support, care, and education our youngest learners need to thrive. We still need additional funding to guarantee the program’s long-term sustainability.”

The Importance of Early Learning

Research has shown that high-quality early childhood education has lasting impacts on a child’s academic and social-emotional development. Children who attend preschool are better prepared for kindergarten and perform better throughout their academic careers. Plus, studies show that early childhood education reduces crime rates, decreases reliance on social services, and fosters healthier communities.

“We’re not just teaching children. We’re nurturing the architects, educators, and leaders of tomorrow,” said Monica Frey, Principal at Truman Early Learning Center. “Every moment in preschool is an opportunity to inspire curiosity, confidence, and a love for learning.”

Preschool Registration Details:

  • Opens: Friday, February 28, 2025
  • Online Registration: Available at 6:00 AM
  • In-Person Registration: Truman Early Learning Center, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Parents will select their 1st and 2nd choices for preschool sites during registration. They will be filled on a first come first serve basis.

For more information on the new preschool model and registration details, visit https://crschools.us/schools/preschool-alternative-kindergarten/preschool/