Early Learning » Early Learning

Early Learning

"Every Child is a Reader" with different book covers on wall    
 
Doors to Early Learning in White River School District
 
In the White River School District, our early learning programs include half-day preschool, full-day transition to kindergarten, and full-day kindergarten. Program qualifications vary based on age and need.
 
Developmental Preschool door
Preschool
 
 
 
 

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.

 
 
 
 
Preschool door
Transition to Kindergarten
 
 
4 years old on August 31st and will turn 5 years old on or after September 1st

 
 
 
Early Kindergarten door
Kindergarten
Student turns 5 prior to September 1st
 
 
Preschool
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
Transition to Kindergarten (TtK) is a full-day early learning program for children that are identified through a screening process. 
The transition to kindergarten is an exciting journey for children, and our program is designed to make this change both fun and seamless. We focus on building confidence, encouraging curiosity, and nurturing a love for learning through engaging activities like play-based learning, and collaborative projects. Our students explore new concepts through hands-on experiences that spark their imagination, with a focus on letters, numbers, language, motor skills, and social and emotional development.
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
How Can You Help Prepare Your Child?

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.

Develop Self-Help Skills
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

 

Who Do We Serve?
  • 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 Manager

Phone Number: (360) 829-3354

340 River Ave North  Buckley, WA 98321

 

Who Do We Serve?
  • Kindergarten students from the Elk Ridge service area
 

For more information visit our  Elk Ridge Elementary Website