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Soap Lake School District

Home of the Eagles

Early Learning Programs

Two young girls smile, one holding a sign that reads 'Look Out Kindergarten! Here I come!'

Early Learning Programs

Soap Lake School District offers early learning opportunities that support young children’s growth and readiness for school. Our programs emphasize play-based, developmentally appropriate learning that builds social-emotional skills, early literacy and math foundations, and a positive connection to school.

Enrollment Information

Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is now open.
Priority enrollment applications are due by May 15th. 

To help us review applications and plan for available spaces, Preschool and Transition to Kindergarten applications should be submitted by May 15, 2026.

Families will be notified of program placement as follows:

Preschool: Families will be notified by May 29, 2026 whether their child has been offered a place in the program.

Transition to Kindergarten: Families will be notified by June 10, 2026 whether their child has been offered a place in the program.

Kindergarten: Kindergarten does not have a waiting list for students living in Soap Lake School District boundaries. Families living outside the Soap Lake SD boundaries will also need to complete a Choice Application.

Applications submitted after May 15th may still be considered if space is available. If no spaces are available, students will be placed on a waiting list.

Submitting an application does not guarantee placement. Program availability may be limited, and applications will be reviewed based on program eligibility, available space, and district enrollment priorities.

Families may pick up registration packets at the elementary school 7:45 a.m. -3:30 p.m. or district office, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., or complete the pre-enrollment form online. 

Soap Lake Elementary School
410 Ginkgo St. S.
Soap Lake WA 98851
Phone: 509-246-1323
 

Program Options

  • 3-Year-Old Preschool

    The 3-Year-Old Preschool program provides a developmentally appropriate, half-day introduction to school for young learners.

  • Transition to Kindergarten (TK)

    TK is part of the district’s regular education program for 4-year-olds.

  • Learning Through Play

    Our early learning programs use play as the foundation for learning. Through hands-on activities, exploration, and guided instruction, children build language, problem-solving, and social skills in ways that are meaningful and developmentally appropriate.

  • Supporting Each Child’s Growth

    Every child develops at their own pace. Our preschool and Transition to Kindergarten programs are designed to meet children where they are, supporting social-emotional growth, early academic skills, and confidence as learners.

  • A Strong Start for School Success

    Early learning lays the groundwork for long-term success. By providing supportive environments, consistent routines, and strong relationships, we help children build the skills they need for a smooth transition into kindergarten and beyond.

Children interact with a gingerbread man character in a decorated room.


3-Year-Old Preschool

The 3-Year-Old Preschool program provides a developmentally appropriate, half-day introduction to school for young learners.

Eligibility

  • Children must turn 3 years old by August 31st.

Schedule

  • Four half-days per week

  • Tuesday–Friday

  • Morning sessions

Program Overview

  • Play-based, developmentally appropriate instruction

  • Emphasis on early language, numeracy, social-emotional, and motor skill development

  • Classroom routines that support early learning and school readiness

Cost

  • This program has a monthly tuition cost of $50/month.

  • Payment information will be available through the elementary office.

 

 

Children in aprons and gloves engage in a creative art project at a table.

 

Transition to Kindergarten (TK)

Transition to Kindergarten is part of the district’s regular education program and is intended to serve children who may benefit from additional preparation prior to entering kindergarten.

Eligibility

  • Children must turn 4 years old by August 31st.

Schedule

  • Five days per week

  • Same daily schedule as Kindergarten–Grade 6

Program Overview

  • Play-based learning aligned with kindergarten readiness

  • Development of early literacy and math through hands-on exploration

  • Social-emotional learning, self-regulation, and classroom community

  • A full-day instructional schedule aligned with elementary expectations

Cost

  • No charge

  • TK is a free public education program, similar to Kindergarten.

Transition to Kindergarten Screening Process

In alignment with guidance from the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), enrollment in Transition to Kindergarten includes a screening and placement process.

When determining TK placement, the district prioritizes students based on:

  • Residency within Soap Lake School District

  • A child’s developmental readiness and learning needs

  • Access to other early learning opportunities

  • Family income, consistent with state guidance

This process supports equitable access and ensures that TK placements serve students who are most likely to benefit from the program. Enrollment is subject to program capacity.