School Committee approves full-day preschool program for 4-year-olds

The Tewksbury School Committee meeting on March 11, 2025, highlighted a significant proposal aimed at enhancing preschool education in the district. Superintendent Regan and staff presented a plan to extend the preschool schedule, responding to the growing needs of students and families in the community.

The proposed changes include increasing the preschool hours for four-year-olds from 2 hours and 15 minutes to 3 hours daily, five days a week. This adjustment aims to better prepare children for the transition to full-day kindergarten, addressing concerns that the current schedule does not adequately meet developmental needs. For three-year-olds, the plan suggests a 2-hour daily schedule from Monday to Thursday, with Fridays off, reflecting feedback from families who feel that a five-day program may be overwhelming for younger children.

The initiative also emphasizes inclusion, allowing students with special needs to learn alongside their typically developing peers. The committee discussed the importance of creating an integrated learning environment, where children can benefit from social interactions and collaborative learning experiences. This approach is designed to foster a supportive atmosphere that accommodates the diverse needs of all students.

In addition to the schedule changes, the proposal includes the establishment of a social learning group aimed at enhancing social skills among students who require additional support. This group will focus on interactive learning, helping children develop essential skills in a structured environment.

The committee confirmed that these changes would not require additional staffing, maintaining the current number of classrooms while optimizing the use of existing resources. This efficiency is expected to have a positive impact on the budget without compromising the quality of education.

As the meeting concluded, the committee expressed enthusiasm for the proposed plan, recognizing its potential to significantly benefit preschool students and their families in Tewksbury. The next steps involve formalizing the changes and collaborating with transportation services to ensure a smooth implementation of the new schedule. This initiative reflects the district's commitment to providing high-quality early education and fostering an inclusive community for all learners.