If all students entering Kelso School District have access to high quality early learning experiences, then 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 Preschool Pups, Transition to Kindergarten, and Head Start—including program staffing, calendars, and qualifications—click here for a printable pdf or here for the document in spreads.

Preschool

Students

3- and 4-year-old early learners that benefit from a half-day program

Teacher & Support Staff

Certified General Education Teacher, Special Education support staff, Paraeducator(s)

Program Location

Catlin site

Program Calendar

Follows KSD calendar
Family meetings Aug 28, 29, and 30
Classes run Sept 3 through Jun 12

Program Hours

M, Tu, Th, F (No preschool on Wednesday.)
AM Session: 8:45-11:40
PM Session: 12:30-3:25

Transportation

Parents provide transportation

Application

Apply online bit.ly/pups24-25app. Only completed applications will be considered for placement.

Application process

Application processed
If there’s an opening, parent called to complete registration packet
Registration
completed &
student enrolled
Classroom teacher contacts parents

Qualification criteria

Preschool serves up to 54 three- and four-year-olds (must turn three by August 31). Students are enrolled as they apply until the program is at capacity.

Wait List

We will keep a wait list for students throughout the year. Students that are not enrolled in the program will be added to our wait list.

Transition to Kindergarten

Students

4- to 5-year-old early learners with no prior high quality early learning program opportunities

Teacher & Support Staff

Certified General Education Teacher, Special Education support staff, Paraeducator(s)

Program Locations

To the greatest extent possible, students’ home school

Program Calendar

Follows KSD calendar
Family meetings Aug 28, 29, and 30
Classes run Sept 3 through Jun 12

Program Hours

M, T, Th, F: 8:45-3:25
W: 8:45-1:55

Transportation

Bussing available for those that are not in the identified walking boundaries

Application

Apply online at bit.ly/tk24-25app

Application process

Application processed
Parent called to schedule screening & determine the need
for programming
If accepted into program based on need, parent called to complete registration packet
Registration completed & student enrolled
Classroom teacher contacts parents

Qualification criteria

TK serves students (must be four years old by August 31) that have not had a high-quality early learning opportunity elsewhere. Openings are limited and fulfilled based on highest priority of developmental learning and family needs.

Questions? Contact Becky Kent at becky.kent@kelsosd.org.