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Gilbert board spotlight: district preschool programs show early literacy gains, expand options
Summary
District preschool leaders told the governing board the program now spans 71 classrooms and 116 sections, reported rapid gains in early literacy metrics (letter-name/sound proficiency rose from 57% to over 72% in one quarter) and outlined expansions, partnerships and parent engagement initiatives to boost kindergarten readiness.
The Gilbert Public Schools governing board on March 31 heard a long-form presentation on the district’s preschool programs from early‑learning leaders, who described program growth, curriculum changes and early literacy gains that officials said are positioning more children to enter kindergarten ready to learn.
District preschool director Don Cobberstein told the board “My name is Don Cobberstein, and I am the proud director of early learning,” and described a system that now includes 71 classrooms across roughly 30 campuses and four program options: Advantage (integrated preschool), Building Blocks, K‑Prep and tuition-based Toy Box. He said the district offers part‑ and full‑day options and is pursuing site expansions where families indicate…
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