FAQs
Q: Why is the district charging for these tuition-based programs, while there are other LCSD#1 prekindergarten programs that are tuition-free?
A: Schools receiving Title 1 funding offer tuition-free prekindergarten programs because they receive federal funds. These two non-title programs are housed in schools that are not Title 1 schools, and therefore do not receive federal funding. This venture is a cost neutral program, and tuition is only collected to cover the associated costs, not for profit.
Q: Who is eligible to attend the Tuition-Based PreK Programs?
A: Any child who has turned 4 years old by August 1st.
Q: What will the tuition-based program cost?
A: The cost to attend is $6,750. The payment plan is broken-up into 9 payments for the academic year. The parent will sign a Parent/District Agreement for Full Day Pre-K Tuition contract. Parents should review the Program Description documents for further information as well as Sliding Scale Tuition eligibility.
Q: What happens if my tuition payment is late?
A: Failure to pay within specified timelines will result in the students’ removal from the program. No bills or notices will be sent. Payment is due on the 5th day of the month (or the previous business day if the 5th falls on a weekend). The payment is considered late after the close of business on the date the payment is due. Late payment will result in a $25 late fee.
Q: How do I claim the PK tuition on my taxes?
A: LCSD#1 will issue receipts and annual statements to parents for tuition payments. Parents should keep these receipts as proof of childcare claims for tax purposes and ensure their contact information is correct with the school district.
Q: What are the Prekindergarten program hours of operation?
A: Like all elementary schools at LCSD#1, the day begins at 8:35 and ends at 3:35. Prekindergarten will follow the district calendar as well.
Q: What if I do not live in the boundary area where the program is located?
A: Families interested in attending either of the two Non-Title, Tuition-Based Prekindergarten programs are not required to live in either Anderson or Pioneer Park’s boundary areas. These programs will not be housed in a Title One school, and therefore are able to follow an Open Enrollment process. Families must simply live within the LCSD#1 boundary area. It is important to note, that enrollment in the Prekindergarten program at either of these schools, does not equate enrollment in that school for Kindergarten and beyond. Families must enroll in their boundary area school for kindergarten, despite the location of their Prekindergarten enrollment.
Q: Who will be teaching my child?
A: Classes will be taught by a licensed Early Childhood Teacher. Each classroom will also be supported by an Early Childhood Educator.
Q: What curriculum will be used?
A: Students will enjoy learning curriculum especially designed for their age and inquisitive nature. Students will engage in play-based learning throughout the day, while also being exposed to important early literacy skills helping them to be Kindergarten ready, when the time comes. LCSD#1 Prekindergarten programs use their own Early Childhood standards, aligned with the Wyoming’s Early Learning Standards.
Q: How will the day be structured?
A: Class begins at 8:35 and ends at 3:35 daily. During the school day, students will engage in play-based learning in the areas of science, social studies, social emotional skills, writing and more. Early literacy skills and early number sense skills will be delivered with a bit more structure and practiced through play-based, hands-on learning opportunities. Daily, students will eat lunch, snack and participate in recess. Students will participate in a Specials rotation of PE, art, music, and media center throughout the week.Q: How will my child’s progress be communicated?
A: Students will receive a quarterly progress report, where student learning is shared with parents.
Q: Will meals and snacks be provided?
A: Breakfast and Lunch is available for purchase through the LCSD1 Nutrition Services Department. Snacks will be provided. The school where your child attends will give more information to parents as they finalize their registration.Q: Will transportation be provided?
A: No. Parents are responsible for transporting prekindergarten age children to and from school daily.
Q: Can I volunteer in my child’s classroom?
A: Yes. Once school begins, reach out to your child’s teacher to discuss volunteer opportunities.
Q: How does the addition of the Tuition-Based Prekindergarten programs tie into District Strategic Plan?
A: Affording additional students with the opportunity to a high-quality Early Childhood Education encourages Student Readiness by preparing students for seamless transition to elementary school, providing access to best practices in instruction, and as well as additional time to develop important social-emotional skills so crucial for later academic success.
Q: Who do I contact if I have additional questions not listed?
A: You may contact Anderson Elementary, Deming Elementary, or Pioneer Park Elementary staff for questions and information. You may also contact the LCSD#1 Department of Instruction at 307-771-2100.