Early Learning

Our Half-Day Preschool Program allows young learners to engage in exciting, hands-on learning experiences in an inclusive classroom setting. This locally funded program allows children to grow and thrive as they interact with same-age peers, all while celebrating diverse abilities. Through dynamic activities and exploration, our students receive high-quality, rigorous early learning experiences that foster creativity, problem-solving, and social development.
In our classrooms, children engage in various hands-on learning activities and interactive play that sparks curiosity and learning. These experiences are designed to support their growth in all areas, including language, letters, numbers, motor skills, and emotional and social development. The small class sizes ensure that each child gets the attention and support they need to reach their full potential.
This program is designed to give children the confidence and skills they need before entering kindergarten, all within an environment that values inclusion, collaboration, and respect. Since the program is locally funded and space is limited, we encourage early enrollment to secure a spot for your child.
- Preschool students attend half-a-day sessions, four days a week, Tuesday-Friday.
- Students 4 years old on August 31st and will turn 5 years old on or after September 1st
- Students ages 3-5 who receive special education services.
- Hosted at White River Early Learning Center
- No mid-day transportation
- No mid-day childcare (Kids Club) available during the school day
- No Out of District Waivers Accepted
Transition to Kindergarten
Our experienced educators use individualized strategies to help our students build foundational skills, from social interactions to problem-solving techniques. By fostering a sense of belonging and offering extra support, we ensure that every child is ready to take on the challenges of kindergarten with confidence and enthusiasm.
- Transition to Kindergarten students attend Monday - Friday for the full day.
- Students 4 years old on August 31st and will turn 5 years old on or after September 1st.
- Hosted at White River Early Learning Center
- Eligibility for TtK is determined by the following factors (per state guidelines):
- A child who has been determined to benefit from additional preparation for kindergarten through a screening process and tool.
- A child who is at least four years old by August 31st of the school year in which they enroll in a transition to kindergarten program.
- Priority to children most in need of additional preparation to be successful in kindergarten, as demonstrated through a screening process and tool.
- Priority to children with the lowest family income not otherwise participating in another local program
- No Out of District Waivers Accepted
Kindergarten
Kindergarten is a full-day program hosted at both the Early Learning Center and Elk Ridge Elementary. Our students receive high-quality rigorous academic, social and behavioral instruction. Our teachers provide a nurturing learning environment where children learn by engaging in active, hands-on activities. Teachers encourage curiosity and creativity and students can be seen singing, moving, creating and playing.
- Kindergarten students attend Monday - Friday for the full day.
- Students who turns 5 prior to September 1st
- Hosted at White River Early Learning Center and Elk Ridge Elementary
Play!
Play is a powerful tool for learning. It encourages sharing, creativity, and conversation and makes memories that last. Through play, children develop essential social skills and problem-solving abilities, preparing them for school in a fun, engaging way.
Read to Your Child Every Day
Reading together is one of the best ways to prepare your child for kindergarten. Make books a part of your daily routine, visit the library, and explore stories together. Reading daily helps build vocabulary, comprehension, and a love for learning!
Talk with Your Child
Engage in conversations with your child throughout the day. Point out the colors, shapes, numbers, and letters that are all around them. Be specific, and ask questions that help them think. The more you talk, the more vocabulary they will develop. Talk about the fun experiences they'll have at school to spark excitement!
Set Good Morning and Bedtime Routines
Consistency is key for young children. Set a predictable routine, especially around bedtime. Four, five, and six-year-olds need 10 to 12 hours of sleep each night to ensure they are well-rested and ready to learn each day.
Encourage your child to be independent by practicing everyday tasks. Help them learn to use the restroom, open their lunch containers, tie shoes, put on their coats, zip and button their pants, and wash their hands. These skills will build confidence and help them feel more capable when they start school.
Early Learning Center: Home of the Bumblebees!
Lina Randall | Principal
Gloria Gelmini | Office Manager
Phone Number: (360) 829-5830
27515 120th St E Buckley, WA 98321
- Kindergarten students from the Foothills service area
- Kindergarten students from the Mt. Meadow service area
- Kindergarten students from the Wilkeson service area
- Preschool and Transition to Kindergarten students from the entire district
For more information visit our White River Early Learning Center Website
Elk Ridge Elementary: Home of the Rangers!
Nina Markey | Principal
Lorraine Panek | Office ManagerPhone Number: (360) 829-3354
340 River Ave North Buckley, WA 98321
- Kindergarten students from the Elk Ridge service area
For more information visit our Elk Ridge Elementary Website