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DPS Makes a Dramatic Expansion to Preschool and Kindergarten Programs

Posted on 23. Jun, 2009 by JM in Posts

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Dramatic Expansion Brings Half- and Full-Day Preschool and Kindergarten To More Than 80 Denver Public Schools

Families looking for safe, high-quality early education have a host of new options at Denver Public Schools. DPS has broadened its lineup of half- and full-day preschool and full-day kindergarten programs to more than 80 schools, including five Montessori options, for the 2009-2010 school year. Full and partial scholarships are available.

DPS preschool and kindergarten classes are taught by experienced, licensed teachers and preschool programs are rated by Qualistar Early Learning, an independent assessment agency dedicated to improving child development and age-appropriate learning experiences for early education students throughout Colorado. Because demand for high-quality, full-day preschool and kindergarten programs is at an all-time high, over the last two years DPS has expanded its full-day preschool programs from just over 500  to almost 2,500 openings, and its full-day kindergarten openings from less than 5,000 to well over 6,000 for the 2009-2010 school year.

Still, DPS reports that spaces are filling up quickly. “Many families mistakenly think they can wait until August to enroll their child in their first-choice school,” said Cheryl Caldwell, director of early education for DPS. “However, many of our most popular programs are already at capacity and other openings are filling fast. We highly recommend families contact DPS right away to ensure their child has the opportunity to build self-esteem, knowledge, social skills and a love of learning at their favorite school.”

During June and July when schools are closed, families can pick up and submit enrollment applications at the Del Pueblo Office at 750 Galapago Street, Denver, CO 80204. Applications are also available to download online at http://earlyeducation.dpsk12.org. When submitting an application, proof of the student’s age, proof of family income and proof of address must be included. Depending upon the child’s age, other documentation may be required. To learn more about the application process, acceptable documents and full or partial scholarships, families are encouraged to call the Early Education Application Processing at (720) 424-2639 or visit http://earlyeducation.dpsk12.org.