Phoenix #1 Preschool Options

Phoenix Elementary School District #1 is proud to offer high-quality preschool options designed to meet the diverse needs of our families. For the 2025–2026 school year, we have both no-cost and paid options, including full-day and half-day schedules. We're here to support you in finding the right fit for your child and your family’s needs.

Preschool Offerings

Our district preschool program implements a developmentally appropriate curriculum that meets the individual needs of each student. The focus is on the development of the whole child in a cognitively rich and responsive environment. Every child in our program has the opportunity to participate in a variety of active learning experiences that foster cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth. Educational experiences for preschool students are based on the understanding that young children learn through socio-dramatic and constructive play. Our preschool classrooms create an environment that promotes independence, fosters decision-making, and encourages the involvement of children and families.

Full-Day Preschool (Tuition-Based)         
Available at:

• Emerson
• Kenilworth
• Shaw Montessori
  

These full-day programs serve 4-year-olds and offer a robust early learning experience delivered by certified teachers. To ensure these programs are sustainable, the district will implement monthly tuition at the above sites. Students must be potty-trained to participate in this program.                         

Please note: This is a new change for the upcoming school year, and we’re committed to keeping tuition affordable while supporting families through this transition.

Half-Day Developmental Preschool (No Cost for In-District Residents)
Available at:

• Faith North Early Childhood Learning Center

We are expanding our no-cost half-day preschool sessions for district families! These programs for 3 and 4-year-olds are an excellent introduction to school for our youngest learners. Students must be potty-trained to participate in this program.

Head Start (Free program for low-income families)

Available at:

• Bethune
• Edison
• Heard
• Lowell
  

These programs serve qualifying, low-income families and provide strong school readiness support through the federal Head Start model.

Need Full-Day Childcare Beyond Our Program Hours?

We’ve partnered with Y Academy at Monterey Park to offer a high-quality, affordable childcare solution for children under 5.

• Transportation is available from our preschool sites to Y Academy.
• This option provides extended care for families who need full-day support.

Tuition & Fees for Full-Day Preschool

*Phoenix #1 Employees receive a 10% tuition discount and a waived registration fee
*Payments will be due monthly online
*Late fees apply starting on the 9th day of the month

Need Help or Have Questions?

We’re here to help you explore your options and find the best fit.
Call us at 602-257-3901 for personalized assistance.

Registration

If you have already registered, you do not need to register again. 

To apply for Head Start (Bethune, Edison, Heard, Lowell), call 602-262-4040​ or visit the City of Phoenix Head Start Program website.

To apply for Emerson, Faith North, Kenilworth, or Shaw Montessori, call 602-257-3901.

Preschool Child Find

The district offers developmental screenings periodically year-round. Children as young as age 2 years 9 months may participate in hearing, vision, and developmental screenings to determine if further evaluations are necessary. Eligible children identified with significant delays will be offered services through enrollment in programs that include special education services in the district at no cost to the parent/guardian. If you think your preschool-age child may have speech or other developmental delays, please call (602) 257-3808 to make an appointment for screening.

If you have an infant birth to 2 years 9 months of age who appears to have developmental delays, please contact Arizona Early Intervention Programs (AzEIP) at (602) 253-1620 to learn about services available for younger children with disabilities.

Learn more about Child Find.