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The Milepost: Planning For Preschool? We've Got You Covered

Posted Date: 03/23/26 (05:00 PM)
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The Milepost newsletter logo which features the image of a mountain with the Chehalis School District compass logo rising above it like a sun

Preschool Options For All

2026-2027 Preschool Registration Opens April 1

March 18, 2026

Why is Preschool Important?

Preschool is an important step in our students' educational journey because it is their first chance to begin developing the skills they need to be lifelong learners. Our preschool students work on academic, social/emotional and fine and gross motor skills, preparing them to be ready to succeed when they reach Kindergarten. In this edition of The Milepost, take a look inside our developmental preschool and learn about a local preschool opportunity you might not yet know about.

Community Peers at Developmental Preschool

Our Developmental Preschool found at THIS LINK is a 4-day a week program for 3-5 year olds who qualify for special education services. It is located at James Lintott Elementary. Children in this program are typically identified through the Child Find screening process. If you would like to have your child screened, send Child Find an email at childfind@chehalisschools.org.

But did you know this program also offers spots for students who do not qualify for special education? Our Community Peers preschool students need to be at least 4 years old, potty trained and live in the Chehalis School District boundaries. These students act as role models for their peers in age-appropriate skills, while receiving a high-quality preschool education taught by accredited special education teachers.

Registration for Community Peers for the 2026-2027 school year will open April 1. Tuition for the 2026-2027 school year will be $220 per month. One meal and one snack per day is included.

What Happens at Preschool?

A young boy smiles as he holds a piece of a game as a teacher looks on

Academic Skill Growth

We know that there are skills that will help pre-K students grow into successful Kindergarteners. Numbers, letters, colors, shapes, sorting, weather and calendars are just some of the academic skills our preschoolers have a chance to practice in a fun, age-appropriate and play-based way.
A woman smiles as a young girl hands her a piece of puzzle

Individualized Learning

We know that our youngest students often need guidance and support to grow. Small ratios of students to staff and access to specialists mean our preschool students receive a lot of one-on-one attention. We meet each student where they are and build relationships that help them grow.
Two boys play together with a toy

Play as Learning

We believe learning happens everywhere. In our preschool classrooms, art, music, and free play are essential parts of the learning experience. Some activities are guided by teachers, while others are child-directed, giving students the freedom to explore their interests, build creativity and develop skills at their own pace.
Two girls smile as they play with a jack in the box

Making Friends

We believe learning is more enjoyable and meaningful when it happens alongside friends. Our preschool students engage with one another across a variety of activities. These interactions help children learn age-appropriate social behaviors, build strong relationships and grow together as a community of learners.
Follow THIS LINK to our enrollment and registration page for more information about our district's preschool offerings. On April 1, the page will also include registration links for the 2026-2027 school year.