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A Strong Foundation for Kindergarten and Beyond

At Weld RE-4, we believe that each child is a unique and priceless gift entrusted to our care. We respect, value, and accept all children in our program as we guide and support their learning experiences.

Our preschool program nurtures the whole child, fostering social connections, emotional growth, and academic readiness in a warm, supportive school environment. Best of all, it's available at no cost to families of 4-year-olds through Colorado Universal Preschool (UPK).

Have a 3-Year-Old Ready to Start Learning?

We also offer tuition-based enrollment for younger learners, giving them an early advantage and a head start on school readiness in the same high-quality program. Contact the Preschool Program Office at 970-686-8080 or preschool@weldre4.org for more information.

Universal Preschool (UPK)

Through the Colorado Department of Early Childhood, all children in the year before kindergarten (4 years old by October 1) can receive free preschool education. This is an opportunity for families to provide their children with early educational support.

Please note that there are a limited number of spots available in our district’s preschool program, and participation is limited to approximately 12 hours per week.

To apply for the preschool program, please contact preschool@weldre4.org.

Children must reside within the boundaries of our school district to attend our preschool program.

Preschool Locations and Schedule

Our preschool classes are embedded in several of our elementary schools, providing a seamless transition into the K–12 learning environment. These schools include:

• Grandview Elementary
• Hollister Lake Elementary
• Orchard Hill Elementary
• Skyview Elementary
• Tozer Primary School

We operate on a four-day weekly schedule, offering 12 hours of instruction per week (exceeding the state-required 10 hours to give your child more learning time). While we know many families need full-time care, our program is designed to provide exceptional early learning that can complement other childcare arrangements or family schedules.

We offer two sessions:

• Morning Session: 7:20 a.m. – 10:20 a.m.
• Afternoon Session: 11:20 a.m. – 2:20 p.m.

What Makes Weld RE-4 Preschool Different?

Free Public Preschool for 4-Year-Olds 

Thanks to Colorado UPK funding, eligible 4-year-olds receive 12 hours per week of exceptional preschool education at no cost to your family. While the state only requires 10 hours per week, we extend our offerings to allow for more learning and play time. That's quality early learning without the private preschool price tag.

Certified Teachers, Not Just Childcare Providers 

Your child learns from certified educators with specialized early childhood training, the same caliber of instruction you'll find in our elementary classrooms. This means higher-quality teaching and more intentional learning experiences.

Smaller Class Sizes for More Attention 

With just 16 students per classroom (below the state requirement of 20:1), your child gets more individualized attention, stronger relationships, and a learning environment where every child is truly seen and supported.

Seamless Transition into Kindergarten 

Unlike standalone preschools, our students learn right alongside elementary school kids. They become familiar with school routines / schedules, hallways, playgrounds, and the kindergarten transition is seamless. No “scary” new building next year, just a walk down the hall.

Academic Learning Through Play 

We balance structured academic preparation with play-based discovery. We utilize the Creative Curriculum in our preschool classrooms, which provides resources in all areas of development.

The program uses developmentally appropriate, language-rich, literacy-based activities to support and extend the themes through activities that address all areas of a child’s development: physical, emotional, social, linguistic, mathematics and cognitive.

We Meet Every Child Where They Are 

Still working on potty training? New to English? Need extra behavioral support? We welcome all children and work with families to support each child's unique developmental journey. Our inclusive environment includes specialized support for children with diverse learning needs.

It’s important to note that early childhood special education is a state and federally mandated program for 3- and 4-year-old children experiencing challenges in their learning and development, and who meet state eligibility criteria for special education and related services.

Our preschool program reserves spots for children who qualify for these services, and families can enroll at any point throughout the school year. Our trained and certified professionals will evaluate developmental concerns through a service called Child Find. Learn more about Child Find and preschool special education.

Comprehensive Child Assessments 

We assess every child's progress throughout the year, not just those receiving special education services. This means we catch learning gaps early and celebrate growth with data that matters.

Support for Multilingual Families 

As a public school district, we offer extensive resources and support for families who speak languages other than English at home, helping every child and family feel connected to our school community.

Nutritious Meals Included 

Because learning happens best when little bellies are full, students in morning sessions will receive a free breakfast and students in afternoon sessions will receive a free lunch through the Healthy School Meals for All Program.

Your child's learning journey starts here, and we look forward to welcoming your little one.