Submitted by North Thurston Public Schools
On a recent morning in Mountain View Elementary preschool teacher Misty Samuelson’s classroom, students excitedly gathered for morning circle. They added up how many of their classmates were there that day before launching into a spirited game of pass the beanbag. Their day also includes table time to practice their letters or play with toys, free choice play time, recess, and a snack.
North Thurston Public Schools (NTPS) offers the preschool program for 3- and 4-year-olds in our community. In the NTPS model, students with special education needs play and learn alongside typically developing peers.
“Having this integrated, play-based model benefits all of the students in the program,” said NTPS Director of Early Learning Dr. Dianne Heckman. “It helps ensure all of the students have the social and academic skills to succeed in kindergarten and beyond.”
Families with typically developing children pay tuition and may qualify for a reduced tuition rate of $75 per month. Children with identified special education needs do not pay tuition.
NTPS Preschool is a half-day program offered in morning and afternoon sessions: Families can choose two days a week or four days a week.
- 2-day-a-week program (Monday/Thursday or Tuesday/Friday) for 2.5 hours each day. Tuition: $165 per month.
- 4-day-a-week program (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday). Tuition: $280 per month.
There are four early learning centers around the district:
- Meadows Elementary
- Mountain View Elementary
- Pleasant Glade Elementary
- Woodland Elementary
Applications for the 2025-26 school year open on May 5. Learn more about the Preschool Program and other local early learning opportunities by visiting the North Thurston Public Schools website.
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