Thank you again for your interest and input in the development of a UTSC preschool program. Your input continues to be invaluable. We're thrilled to announce and introduce our inaugural Bearcat Beginnings Preschool Program that will be available to serve our community starting in the fall of the 24-25 school year.
The Bearcat Beginnings preschool plan aligns with the needs of our community with the goal of preparing 4 and late 5-year-old students for Kindergarten success. Bearcat Beginnings Preschool will have three options for enrollment weekly schedule. Our program will follow the UTSC school calendar. By concentrating our efforts on this age group, we can provide a more tailored and effective learning experience, ensuring that our preschoolers are adequately prepared for the transition to elementary school.
Why a Preschool Program Matters
Early Learning: A preschool program can provide a strong foundation for children, fostering early cognitive, social, and emotional development.
Community Enhancement: Establishing a preschool can contribute to the overall growth and well-being of our community by offering accessible educational opportunities for young learners.
Parental Convenience: A local preschool can offer parents a convenient option for early childhood education, creating a positive impact on work-life balance.
Overview of Program Structure: Three Options
AM or PM Class 5 Days: 8:15-11am or 12-2:45pm M-F Monthly Cost: $350 (10months) +$65 Supply Fee + $25 Registration Fee
2 Full Days and 3 Half Days: 2 Full Days T, Th and 3 Half Days M,W,F Monthly Cost: $450 (10months)+$65 Supply Fee + $25 Registration Fee
5 Full Days: 8:15-2:45pm M-F, Monthly Cost: $550 (10months)+$65 Supply Fee + $25 Registration Fee
Staff: One classroom with One Elementary Licensed Teacher and Two Experienced Classroom Teacher Aides, subject to enrollment.
Location: (JSE) John Simatovich Elementary School 424 West 500 North Valparaiso 46385
Transportation: Not Provided
Boys and Girls Club Child Watch Before and After Care Program: Available only before and after school, not after AM program.
Curriculum: All lessons aligned to the Indiana Early Learning Foundation Standards and supplemented by the different curricular programs. Indiana’s Early Learning Standards are a developmental continuum and align to the 2023 Indiana Academic Standards. The standards provide core elements that children should achieve to be ready for future success.
Our first year will undoubtedly be a journey, and we appreciate your understanding and support as we navigate this exciting endeavor. Together, we can create a preschool program that will benefit our community for years to come.
If your child is 4 years old by September 1st or 5 years old and not attending Kindergarten in the fall of 24-25, please complete the first phase of the Preschool Registration process, whether you're interested in the preschool program or not. Your feedback is vital as we move forward.
Completing this registration expresses your interest in the Bearcat Beginnings Preschool as presented above. This step DOES NOT guarantee a spot for your child in our 24-25 Bearcat Beginnings Preschool. The next step in the registration process will include an email from Leigh Barnes indicating your child's status. The email will indicate that your child is on our class list or your child is on our wait list.
After we confirm your initial registration, you will be asked to confirm your interest at the JSE spring preschool registration and information session on March 14th at 5-6pm, we will collect registration paperwork and fees (registration fee $25 and supply fee $65). The registration and supply fees are non-refundable.
- Registration paperwork and fees are DUE by March 21st. If we have not received your paperwork by the deadline, we will open up registration to the student wait list.
- The first monthly payment will be due in August.
- Cash or Check accepted. Checks should be made out to Union Township School Corporation.
We thank you in advance for your registration and/or input contribution. If you have any questions or additional comments, please feel free to reach out to Leigh Barnes, UTSC Assistant Superintendent at lbarnes@union.k12.in.us.
