Preschool at CRCSD
Start Your Child’s Learning journey with confidence!
The Cedar Rapids Community School District’s 4-year-old preschool program provides a caring, play-based environment where young learners grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Preschool sets the foundation for future school success by building early skills in problem-solving, communication, and independence.
Each classroom is led by a licensed Early Childhood Education teacher and supported by one or more trained paraprofessionals. Our program meets the Iowa Quality Preschool Program Standards (IQPPS) and uses the Creative Curriculum, a research-based approach that emphasizes active learning, exploration, and strong family partnerships. We believe children learn best by doing—through hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and creativity.
Our goal is to help every child become a confident, capable, and joyful learner.
Enrolling for the 2026-2027 school year!
Preschool enrollment for the 2026–27 school year will be opening on February 5th!
We’re excited to welcome your family into our preschool program, which provides innovative early childhood education across multiple CRCSD locations. We have a place and a plan for your child in the 2026–27 school year.
2026-2027 Preschool Locations – Full Day
Grant Wood Elementary School
Truman Early Learning Center
Viola Gibson Elementary School
2026-2027 Preschool Locations – Half Day
Cedar River Academy at Taylor
Hiawatha Elementary
Johnson STEAM Academy
Kenwood Leadership Academy
Maple Grove Elementary
Truman Early Learning Center
West Willow Elementary
Wright Elementary
Enroll in preschool
Preschool applications for the 2026-27 school year will be accepted starting February 5, 2026. Your student must 4 years old by September 15, 2026, to enroll in preschool for the 2026-27 school year.
What We Offer – 2026-27 School Year
- Free Half-day program
- Tuition Based Full-day Program – $350 per month with certified teachers ALL DAY
- Classes available at multiple locations across the district
- Wrap-around care available through Head Start (Cedar River Academy, Johnson STEAM Academy, Truman) or Champions (Kenwood, Truman, West Willow)
- Transportation options where available
“We’re committed to creating magical first school experiences and supporting continued educational growth for every child in our program.”
– Dr. Tawana Grover, CRCSD Superintendent
“Our program builds on children’s natural curiosity while developing the skills they need for kindergarten success. We understand how to challenge and support each child at their level.”
– Monica Frey, Principal at Truman Early Learning Center
2025-2026 Half-Day Preschool Classes
Half-day preschool classes are offered Monday through Thursday. There is no preschool programming on Friday’s. The morning session runs from 8:50 AM to 11:50 AM and the afternoon session runs from 12:50 PM to 3:50 PM. Half-day preschool is FREE through a statewide grant program and is offered at the following locations:
- Cedar River Academy at Taylor Elementary School
- Grant Wood Elementary School
- Hiawatha Elementary School
- Johnson STEAM Academy
- Kenwood Leadership Academy
- Maple Grove Elementary School
- Truman Early Learning Center
- Viola Gibson Elementary School
- West Willow Elementary School
- Wright Elementary School
2025-2026 Full-Day Preschool Classes
CRCSD full-day preschool programming is located at Truman Early Childhood Center. The full day classes run Monday – Thursday, from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM. There is no preschool programming on Friday’s.
Please note: Champions wrap-around care is offered onsite for before and after school and/or Friday care. Families can not do both services.
Required Documents for Four-Year-Old Preschool
The following are required documents for preschool students in order to complete registration and be considered for placement:
- Proof of Birthdate – Child’s birth certificate (not hospital record), passport/visa, physician’s statement, adoption papers, etc.
- Proof of Residence – A utility bill, mortgage statement, or rental agreement in the parent/guardian’s name to verify resident address (driver’s license not accepted).
Before the first day of school, families are also required to submit the following health documents:
- Current Immunization Record or Exemption Certificate – Immunization record from a medical provider (please remember that immunizations MUST comply with state laws).
- Current Health Physical Record – Record of your child’s most recent physical exam from a medical provider.
Additional Requirements for Head Start Wrap-Around Care
If you are interested in applying for the income-based Head Start wrap-around program, lease provide one of the following:
- Two most recent pay stubs for each working parent in the home
- Most recent tax return
- DHS Notice of Decision Letter if your child qualifies for Iowa DHS services.
How to Submit Required Documents
You may submit these documents in one of the following ways:
- Upload them during the registration application process (a scan or a clear picture works)
- Email them to earlylearning@crschools.us (a scan or a clear picture works)
- Take them to the Truman Early Childhood Center at 441 West Post Rd. N.W. Cedar Rapids, IA 52405
Note: Submitting registration and documents does not guarantee placement. The Early Learning Office will contact families once placements are confirmed.
Contact us!
Have questions? Please call us at 319-558-2375 or email earlylearning@crschools.us – we’re happy to help