A Strong Start for a Bright Future
At the Cedar Rapids Community School District, we believe preschool is more than just preparation for kindergarten—it’s the beginning of a joyful, lifelong journey of learning. Our preschool classrooms are warm, welcoming spaces where children feel safe, supported, and inspired to explore.
Every preschool class is led by a State of Iowa licensed Early Childhood Education teacher, and supported by one or more experienced paraprofessionals. Together, they build nurturing environments that support every child’s individual needs and foster a love of learning.
Our Approach to Early Learning
CRCSD uses the Creative Curriculum, a research-based early childhood program that guides teachers in planning meaningful, developmentally appropriate experiences for young children. This curriculum supports all areas of growth—academic, social, emotional, and physical—through play, exploration, and active learning.
Children learn best by doing. Our goal is to help them become independent, confident learners who are curious about the world around them. We use Teaching Strategies GOLD assessment program that has been selected by the State of Iowa to assist in monitoring children’s progress. The information from the assessment is used to help plan the instruction.
Curriculum Focus Areas:
- Social/Emotional Development– Building friendships, learning trust, gaining independence and self-confidence.
- Cognitive Development– Develop and practice problem-solving skills, ask exploring questions, use words to describe what they are learning/feeling, and making sense of the world around them.
- Physical Development– Strengthening large and small motor skills through movement and hands-on play.
- Language & Literacy – Expressing ideas, understanding others, learning to communicate effectively, and building the foundation for reading and writing.
- Mathematics – Developing number sense, measurement, patterns, and early geometry through exploration.
NOTE: The State of Iowa has developed Early Learning Standards that provide the foundation for our program. Our program also meets IQPPS (Iowa Quality Preschool Program Standards) or NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) Standards.
Partnering With Families
We believe families are a child’s first and most important teachers. Your partnership is key! Regular participation and communication help us serve your child best. Here’s how we support our families:
- Regular communication with updates, photos, and progress reports
- Parent-teacher conferences to celebrate milestones and discuss goals
- Family engagement events to build community and connection
- Flexible scheduling to accommodate siblings and working parents
- Support services for families navigating transitions or additional needs
Enroll in preschool
Preschool applications for the 2025-26 school year will be accepted starting February 28, 2025. Your student must be 4 by September 15, 2025, to enroll in preschool for the 2025-26 school year.
Contact us
If you would like to speak with someone about preschool, please call 319-558-2375 or email earlylearning@crschools.us.