preschool kid smiling

Preschool is a way for kids to build foundational skills before they begin kindergarten. In Rochester, our youngest learners can attend preschool classes offered by Rochester Public Schools (RPS). 

kids playingRPS offers preschools in three locations: Northrop Education Center, Hoover Early Learning School, and Mighty Oaks Early Learning School. Parents can enroll in the school of their choosing and can choose from half-day sessions either in the morning or afternoon, or elect for a full day. 

“Preschoolers are curious, inventive, and excited to learn,” reflects Erica Schumacher, director of Early Learning at RPS. “You soak up a lot of joy from them. They are excited to use information in creative ways.”

Erica works with our preschool team to give our students the best learning environments. Preschool classrooms are designed with young learners in mind. Each classroom is equipped with flexible learning spaces with ample room to play. Each day is different; students spend time playing indoors and outdoors, working on social-emotional development, and developing a love for learning. Our early learning environments are inclusive and serve our entire community.kids playing

Parents can register their children in different classes that each have a unique structure. The youngest learners will be involved in play-based activities to learn about the world around them. RPS Preschool offers age-alike and mixed-age-group classes that allow all children to engage with peers and practice social-emotional skills. All early childhood staff provide high-quality and developmentally appropriate opportunities that prepare their student for future success. Our STEM class exposes children to science at an early age, challenging them to think about how they can interact with the world around them. 

If you’re interested in registering your student for preschool during the 2024/2025 school year at RPS, you can do so starting February 2024 by visiting the RPS Preschools website or calling the office at 507.328.4024 for detailed information about all programs and options. We also provide virtual meetings and in-person open houses for you to get acquainted with our staff, buildings, and programming. When you’re ready to register, you can complete the registration form which makes the process easy to navigate. Further information will be emailed to you afterward. 

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RPS also offers services to students who have additional educational needs. Every child who enters preschool is required to complete an early childhood screening which is done at Northrop and can help identify academic needs and assess current development. Tuition costs are listed on the Preschool website for each program. If families cannot pay the full tuition, financial assistance is available through aid and scholarships. RPS Preschools also offers assistance in other areas like transportation for those who qualify and health services.kids playing

Rochester Public Schools makes it a priority to provide high-quality education to preschoolers and their families in our community. With RPS Preschools, we look to give children a strong foundation for success before they begin their first day of kindergarten. 

For more information on RPS Preschools, visit:

https://preschool.rochesterschools.org