WACO Preschool was awarded the Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program Grant in 2009 as a result of the Preschool Committee’s dedicated work. The program’s goal is to provide a high-quality preschool program meeting each child’s needs, including children with disabilities and those from diverse backgrounds. The preschool provides a rich learning environment that encourages children’s natural curiosity and supports them to take risks that lead to new skill development. It is a setting where children feel safe, respected, and cared for. This is an opportunity for all four-year-old children and three-year-old children with IEPs (Individual Education Plans) to take part in planned, active learning experiences to build their readiness skills. The preschool program has adopted and meets the Iowa Quality Preschool Program Standards, administered by the Iowa Department of Education. The Iowa Early Learning Standards are used to guide expectations for the children and instructional practices.

Mission: WACO Preschool provides children with:

A loving and caring environment in which children can feel safe
A variety of opportunities for learning
Freedom to exercise their abilities and potential
A challenging environment that promotes learning
Materials and resources suited to their individual stages of development

Philosophy: By utilizing the approach of a developmentally appropriate program of learning, we provide each child the opportunity to develop physically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually. We believe that interaction with other children in a stimulating environment is vital for success in life. We reinforce curiosity to stimulate the learning process. We provide a challenging environment and a variety of opportunities for learning. We encourage children to use their freedom, exercise their abilities, and reach their full potential.

The WACO Early Childhood/Special Education Program recognizes the importance of early intervention for young children, including those with disabilities. The early years encompass the period of time when educators can have the greatest impact upon a child. The potential effects of handicapping and adverse effects from environmental conditions can both be reduced with quality programming at this age. Early intervention is critical for the maximum growth and development of high-risk children and young children with disabilities. Services that enroll 4 WACO Preschool Handbook 2021-2022 Updated Fall 2021 children with disabilities and nondisabled children are considered to be inclusionary programs. Integrated programs create physical, social, and academic opportunities for the community environment. More and more young children eligible for special education services are being educated in regular community-based settings or natural early childhood environments with the necessary support. Young children who qualify for special education are entitled to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). Legislation also requires that young children who are eligible for special education be served to the maximum extent appropriate with children who do not require special education. All children will benefit from this programming. Goals:

To serve children with disabilities in an educational setting that is least restrictive to his/her early life
To provide individualized and small group instruction
To facilitate children’s development
To promote active engagement in learning and independent functioning
To advance children’s social development
To increase children’s generalized application of skills
To prepare children for participation in their community
To support the achievement of family goals
To meet Iowa Quality Preschool Program Standards

The complete WACO Early Childhood Program and Special Education Preschool Program Policies and Procedures is located on the link below.

WACO Elementary