Lake Washington preschool centers focus on providing children and families with a successful first school experience. The hours for Head Start and Ready Start are shown below:
Ready Start Preschool hours*
Morning classes: 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Afternoon classes: 12 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Head Start Preschool hours*
Morning classes: 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
*Times may vary slightly at individual schools due to high volumes of buses in bus lanes.
Eligibility
Families with a four-year-old child living within the boundaries of Lake Washington School District are eligible to apply for the preschool program. In some circumstances, three-year-olds are also eligible.
How to apply
Applications are being accepted now for enrollment in fall 2009 preschool programs. Parents/guardians must:
You can also call (425) 882-8170 to receive an application.
Please mail the completed application to:
Willows Special Services
PO Box 97039
Redmond WA 98073-9739
How children are selected for preschool
Selection is based on several criteria including family concerns, concerns for the child and level of family income. First priority is given to families who meet these criteria. All other applicants receive placement based on available space.
How students qualify for services
Head Start
Families whose income meets the federal low-income guidelines may qualify for the Head Start component of the preschool program. The program is designed for children ages three and four, with priority for enrollment to four year olds. Head Start is a federally funded program that offers services for the entire family. Verification of income must be received before a family can be considered for placement in Head Start.
Ready Start
Children who are not income eligible for Head Start may be placed in a Ready Start preschool classroom. All children placed in Ready Start must be four years old by August 31 of the year they enter the program. Three-year-olds are placed in Ready Start only if they qualify for special education as developmentally delayed. Remaining spaces will be available to any Lake Washington School District four-year-old child.