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Early Learning Center

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ELC Information

Ellensburg School District Early Learning Center

The Early Learning Center (ELC) provides high-quality, inclusive preschool opportunities for children ages 3–5. We are committed to supporting every child’s growth—social, emotional, and academic—while ensuring families feel welcomed and supported. 💖

Inclusive Education

Inclusive education allows children with special needs to attend school alongside their typically developing peers.

  • Special education and related services are integrated into all parts of the program.
  • Teachers collaborate to support the needs of all students.
  • Children with and without disabilities learn together and share the same daily activities and routines.

Program Highlight: ECEAP

Our ECEAP (Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program) provides high-quality preschool experiences for eligible families, ensuring that every child enters kindergarten ready to thrive. 🌟

Enrollment & Program Information

Age Eligibility

  • Children must be 3, 4, or 5 years old by August 31 of the school year.
  • Children who are 5 must not be kindergarten-eligible unless approved by the Assistant Director of Early Learning and Student Success.

Registration

Families complete the online Ellensburg School District enrollment process once accepted into the program.

Program Dates

Classes run September–June, following the district calendar.

Class Schedules 🕒

  • AM Class (Ages 3–4): 3 hours/day, 3 days/week — Mon, Tue, Thu, 8:15–11:15 a.m.
  • AM ECEAP Class (Ages 3–4): 3 hours/day, 4 days/week — Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, 8:15–11:15 a.m.
  • PM Class (Ages 4–5): 3 hours/day, 4 days/week — Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, 12:15–3:15 p.m.

Tuition 💵

  • One-time enrollment fee: $75 (to reserve your child’s spot).
  • Monthly Tuition (Sept–May):
    • AM Class – $315/month
    • PM Class – $420/month
  • Late fee: $10 if payment is not received by the 5th.
  • Tuition assistance slots may be available.

First Day of School Tips

The first day of preschool is exciting! Here are ways to make the transition smooth:

  • Morning Routine: Wake up early, share breakfast, and review the daily plan.
  • Backpack Together: Pack supplies and a change of clothes.
  • Plan to Stay: Spend 5–15 minutes in the classroom to help your child adjust.
  • Goodbye Routine: Create a special handshake, song, or hug.
  • Resist the Rescue: If your child cries, let teachers step in to support.
  • Stay Positive: Say a cheerful, confident goodbye!

Supply List 🎒

ECEAP provides classroom materials like crayons, paint, glue, and scissors. Families are asked to send:

  • A regular-size backpack (to bring home artwork and notes).
  • A change of clothes (shirt, pants, underwear, and socks).