District Moves One-Step Closer to Tuition Based Pre-K Program

Three Village residents are one step closer to having a tuition based pre-k program that, if feasible, could be available for next school year.

Results of a survey conducted by the district earlier this year show enough interest in moving forward with the program.

Empty classrooms at Nassakeag Elementary school would be used for the program. According to Cathy Taldone, Director of School and Community Partnerships, the maximum class size would be 18, with one teacher and one aide. Tuition rates would still need to be determined. If the program moves forward, registration would be held in February and March of 2014.

“We have the potential to increase revenue while also providing the community with a quality pre-k program,” said Taldone at a board of education meeting held Wednesday evening. “We would need to have enrollment in two classes for the program to be self-supporting.”

Taladone also said before and after care is also a possibility for the program, which would be for children who are four-years-old by December. 

"This would help prime our students academically in an environment they will become familiar with," said board of education trustee Susanne Mendleson. "This will hopefully be something we can initiate relatively soon."