Pleasant Valley Community School District is launching a full-day preschool program as a pilot beginning next school year, reflecting a continued commitment to meeting the evolving needs of families and young learners. The expansion builds on the district’s strong foundation in early childhood education and aligns with Pleasant Valley’s mission to serve all students by providing equitable access to high-quality learning opportunities from the very start of their educational journey.
Meeting Families Where They Are
According to Director of Student Services Jill Kenyon, the decision to explore a full-day model was guided by both family needs and long-term student success. Many Pleasant Valley families balance full work schedules, and a half-day preschool model can create barriers to consistent access. By offering a full-day option alongside half-day programming and moving to a five-day schedule, the district is increasing consistency, predictability, and meaningful choice for families while supporting stronger kindergarten readiness.
Giving Our Youngest Learners Time to Grow
At Bridgeview and Hopewell Elementaries, our preschool team is eager to see the value a longer day brings to student growth. Megan Halverson, Bridgeview Principal shared “Full-day preschool gives our youngest learners something incredibly valuable: time. More time to learn, to play, to build routines, and to grow confidence as students. With a longer day, children can more deeply develop early literacy and math skills while also building independence, stamina, and a love of learning.”
Rachel Gotto, Hopewell Principal, echoed her comments and expanded on them, sharing “Social-emotional growth is a huge focus in our preschool classrooms, and a full-day model allows those skills to be practiced naturally throughout the day. With more time, children learn how to share, communicate, problem-solve, and manage big feelings, both during instruction and through intentional play.”
The full-day preschool model is intentionally designed to be developmentally appropriate and supportive of young learners. Classrooms are led by highly qualified educators with expertise in early childhood and early childhood special education. Each day includes a thoughtful balance of play-based learning, small- and large-group instruction, social-emotional development, meals, and rest, ensuring children remain engaged, supported, and ready to learn throughout the day.
Families interested in learning more about the program, including new hours and scheduling details, are encouraged to visit the preschool webpage at https://www.pleasval.org/schools/pv-preschool/index as Pleasant Valley continues its work to support strong beginnings for every Spartan.