General Information FAQ

• 1. What is Seattle Preschool Program?

• The Seattle Preschool Program (SPP) offers high-quality, affordable preschool to children across the City of Seattle. Our goal is to: prepare children for school, enable students to achieve pre-academic skills, enable students to develop socially and emotionally and eliminate the readiness gap for participating children. SPP is supported by funding from the voter-approved Families, Education, Preschool and Promise Levy (FEPP).

• 2. How do I enroll my child in SPP?

• The Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL) partners with Early Learning programs across the city to deliver the Seattle Preschool Program to children. Parents may apply directly with participating partners or may apply directly through the Seattle Preschool Program online application. (Please see our FAQs on how to apply and enroll for more information.)

• 3. Is transportation available?

• Transportation is not available and is the responsibility of the parent/guardian. If a child is also enrolled in developmental preschool and/or Head Start with Seattle Public Schools, the school district may provide transportation; in this case, a parent/guardian should contact the school district directly to inquire about transportation.

• 4. What are the days of operation and hours?

• All SPP classrooms operate on a full day schedule of 6 hours a day, Monday - Friday for 180 days. Most SPP programs follow the Seattle Public School calendar and run from September to June. You may find the school calendar by going to the Seattle Public Schools website. Times of the program vary by provider. When deciding which provider/s is the best fit, please contact the provider directly or see our provider profiles on our website.

   

  Additionally, certain providers may offer extended day care.

• 5. How does SPP measure/promote preschool quality?

• • SPP Providers must be enrolled in Early Achievers (EA) and hold a rating of Level 3 or above

  • All providers use evidence-based curriculum, either Creative Curriculum or High Scope

  • Lead teachers with degrees in Early Childhood Education

  • Class sizes range with no more than 20 students in each class

  • Enriched classroom environments

  • Continuing education required for teachers

  • Help with kindergarten enrollment and transition

  • Bilingual programs and teaching staff

  • All children receive health and developmental screening

  • Students complete child assessments throughout the year

  • Family Engagement

• 6. Are dual language programs available?

• Yes, SPP has select sites that offer dual languages in the classroom. Currently, SPP offers American Sign Language, Spanish, Chinese- Mandarin, Somali, Arabic and Vietnamese dual language classrooms.

• 7. Is it a requirement for my child (applicant) or me to be a legal U.S. citizen to apply for SPP?

• No. Seattle is a Welcoming City because we believe in inclusion and equity. City employees do not ask about citizenship status and serve all residents regardless of immigration status. Immigrants and refugees are welcome here. SPP staff will not collect information or ask parents/guardians about immigration status. Parent must only provide proof of living within the Seattle city limits, income and child’s age.

• 8. Do kids take naps during SPP?

• Many providers do offer nap or quiet time; however it depends on the provider, classroom, and child. Please contact providers directly if you have questions or concerns.

• 9. Is curriculum in the classroom differentiated for young three-year-olds versus old-four-year olds or five-year-olds?

• Educators in classrooms are highly trained and experienced in meeting children’s individual needs using formal curriculum and other resources. Each provider approaches this differently; we recommend contacting providers directly to inquire about specific differentiated instruction for the younger and older ages in the preschool classroom.

• 10. How has the Seattle Preschool Program adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic?

• Please see our COVID-19 FAQ Page for more information.

• 12. Is it too late to apply? When does the school year start?

• It’s not too late to apply! We actively fill vacancies on a rolling basis through March 2023. You can submit an application here.