Plenty of spaces are available in Durango School District 9-R’s preschool program, and financial assistance is available for families who cannot afford the cost of $550 for a month of full-day preschool and $275 a month for a half day.
Earlier this summer, 9-R worried social-distancing requirements and other measures required by the state to deal with COVID-19 would force the district to reduce enrollment and drastically increase the rates it charges for preschool.
However, the state eased off its requirements, and 9-R held the monthly rate increase to $50 a month for full-day preschool and $35 a month for a half day.
“We did our most to keep costs as low as possible, and we have openings right now throughout the district,” said Libby Culver, supervisor of early childhood education for 9-R.
The district is offering preschool programs at all seven elementary schools.
9-R has money available for financial aid that can cut the cost in half for the preschool program and in some cases covers the entire cost of preschool for eligible families, Culver said.
“Young children learn best through play, and we create a fun, nurturing, engaging environment,” she said. “We provide an environment where kids can gain the most in their brain development, as well as their social-emotional development at this point in their lives.”
Families eligible for financial aid for preschool meet similar guidelines as families eligible to receive free and reduced lunch.
Additional financial aid for preschool is available for:
Families who have moved numerous times.Families where the parent is a teenager at the time of birth.Families where domestic violence has been present.Families with special speech and language needs.Applications for 9-R’s preschool program can be obtained on the district’s website.
Culver said she can assist families in filling out the application, and she can provide more information about the program.
Culver can be reached by email at lculver@durangoschools.org or by phone at 247-5411, ext. 1468.
parmijo@durangoherald.com
