PARK CITY, Utah — The Park City School District is excited to announce the opening of enrollment for its preschool program for the 2026-27 academic year, starting on January 6 at 7:00 a.m. This enrollment period will remain open for three weeks, concluding on January 23, allowing families ample time to secure spots for their 3- and 4-year-olds in a program designed to foster early educational development. Preschool offerings are available across all four elementary schools in the district, providing both full-day and half-day options to accommodate varying family needs. The full-day preschool program is structured to operate Monday through Thursday from 8:10 a.m. to 3:05 p.m., with a shortened schedule on Fridays, running from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For those opting for half-day sessions, classes will be held Monday through Thursday from 8:10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., and on Fridays from 8:10 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. This flexibility allows families to choose the best fit for their child's schedule and their own. Parents wishing to enroll their children will utilize the Eleyo system, accessible via the district's official website, www.pcschools.us. This online platform streamlines the registration process, making it easier for families to request a preschool spot. Announcements regarding school placements will be made by February 2, providing parents with adequate time to arrange for any necessary after-school care and transportation solutions. To be eligible for enrollment, children must be aged 3 or 4 by September 1 and must reside within the boundaries of the Park City School District. The tuition for the preschool program is set at less than $1,000 per month, making it a competitive option for families in the area. Additionally, the district offers financial assistance through scholarships available from the Department of Workforce Services and UPWARD, ensuring that the program remains accessible to all families, regardless of their financial situation. District officials emphasize the importance of preschool education as a foundational stepping stone into kindergarten. Kindergarten teachers have reported that children who have attended preschool are often better prepared for the academic and social challenges they will face. The preschool curriculum not only focuses on early academic skills but also prioritizes social and emotional development, equipping children with essential life skills and a readiness to learn as they transition into formal schooling. For families requiring after-school care, the Park City School District has provisions in place for supervised activities for preschoolers until 6 p.m. This separate program offers peace of mind to working parents, ensuring their children are engaged in safe and enriching activities after regular preschool hours. Registration for the after-school program will open in early February and will incur an additional cost. To assist families through the enrollment process, Melissa Tschabrun, the district's preschool administrative secretary, along with the outreach coordinator, will be available to answer questions and provide guidance on the application process, including how to apply for scholarships. Families can reach Tschabrun directly at mtschabrun@pcschools.us. For inquiries related to after-school care, Michelle Coy can be contacted at mcoy@pcschools.us. The Park City preschool program is bolstered by a grant from the Park City Education Foundation, which includes generous support from Park City Mountain through Vail Resorts EpicPromise. This partnership underscores the community’s commitment to fostering educational opportunities for its young learners, ensuring that each child has the resources they need to thrive in their early academic journey. As the Park City School District prepares to welcome a new group of preschoolers, the focus remains on creating a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally. The upcoming enrollment period represents not just a logistical step for families, but also a significant investment in the future of the community’s youngest members, shaping a generation of learners who are prepared to succeed in their educational endeavors.