early learning

The mission of Kelso Public Schools is to prepare every student for living, learning, and achieving success as a citizen of our changing world. If all students entering Kelso School District have access to high quality early learning experiences, their ability to meet or exceed standards by the end of third grade in English language arts and mathematics is greatly enhanced.

Not sure which early learning program is right for your child? For a detailed comparison between Kelso Preschool Pups, Transition to Kindergarten, and Head Start—including program information and qualifications—click here for a printable pdf or here for the document in spreads.

Preschool Pups

Enrollment is open for our FREE half-day inclusive preschool program!

Qualifications:

  • You must reside in Kelso School District.

  • Your child must be three or four years old prior to enrollment.

Preschool Pups Location:

Catlin site

404 Long Ave, Kelso

Students

Our Preschool Pups program provides a FREE half-day learning experience for up to 54 three- and four-year-olds (children must turn three before enrolling). We invite all families to enroll. This program offers a great opportunity for your child to grow and learn through engaging activities with their peers as they prepare for Transition to Kindergarten or Kindergarten.

Where can I go to enroll my child?

Stop by our Preschool Pups Catlin site to pick up an enrollment packet. If you prefer, you may download and print the form linked below to complete and drop off.

25-26 Preschool Enrollment Packet

Program Calendar

  • Follows KSD calendar

  • New student orientations Aug. 27, 28

  • Meet your teacher Aug. 29

  • 1st Day of School Sep. 2

Program Hours

  • M, T, Th, F (No preschool on Wednesday.)

  • AM Session: 8:45 - 11:40

  • PM Session: 12:30 - 3:25

Transportation

  • Parents/caregivers must provide transportation unless specified by Special Programs.

Wait List

  • Enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis until the program reaches full capacity.

  • A wait list will be kept throughout the school year. As spots become available, applicants will be notified.

Transition to Kindergarten (TK)

transitional kinder

Applications are open for our FREE full day inclusive Transition to Kindergarten (TK) program!

Age Qualification:

  • 4- to 5-year-old early learners (children must turn 4 by August 31)

Apply online at bit.ly/ksd-tk-app  

Students

The TK program is a FREE full-day learning experience for 4- to 5-year-old early learners (children must turn 4 by August 31). Enrollment is limited and openings are filled based on priority, considering the developmental learning needs of the child and family/caregiver circumstances identified during the screening process.

Application Process
We are now accepting applications for the 2025-26 school year for children who meet age eligibility. We encourage parents/caregivers to apply for this valuable program to see if their child qualifies.

Program Calendar

  • Follows the Kelso School District (KSD) calendar if enrolled at Rose Valley, Lexington, Barnes, or Butler Acres Elementary schools.

  • Follows the Wallace School calendar if enrolled at Wallace Elementary School.

Program Hours

  • M, T, Th, F: 8:45 - 3:25

  • W: 8:45 - 1:55

Transportation

  • Bussing is available for in-district students who are NOT within the identified walking boundaries

Application Timeline

  • March 2025: Applications open

  • April 2025: Information on scheduling your child’s screening appointment will be sent

  • May 2025: Screenings will be held at elementary school locations

  • June 2025: Parents/caregivers will be contacted with the results of their child’s screening. If accepted, parents/caregivers will pick up and complete an enrollment packet at the TK location of acceptance.

For More Information