Head Start/ECEAP Preschool

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WWPS Preschool Office
Blue Ridge Elementary
1150 W. Chestnut
Walla Walla, WA 99362
Telephone (509) 527-3066
FAX (509) 522-4480

Office Hours

Monday - Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Apply Today!

Pick up an application at Blue Ridge Elementary or DOWNLOAD HERE

Aplica en persona en Blue Ridge Elementary o DESCARGAR AHORA

Welcome to Preschool!

Walla Walla Public Schools is a strong advocate for early learning. Children eligible for enrollment into our program receive a high-quality preschool experience designed to prepare them for kindergarten. Classes are offered for a half-day with the morning session from 8:15-11:30 and the afternoon session from 12:15-3:30. Children receive a snack and lunch while at school. Other services the program provides include bilingual instruction, health screenings, child development screenings, disabilities services, parent leadership development and education, family support and goal mentoring. Transportation available in a limited area.

Head Start / ECEAP Programs are family development programs that provide comprehensive education, health and social services for children and their families. Head Start preschool is funded by the federal government and ECEAP (Early Childhood Education Assistance Program) is funded by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families. This program is designed to serve the unique needs of our community.

We promote school readiness by enhancing the cognitive, social, and emotional development of our students. The program's learning environment supports children's growth in language & literacy, cognition & general knowledge, physical development & health, social & emotional development, and approaches to learning.

The role of parents as their child's first and most important teacher is emphasized by the program's structure and activities. We strive to build relationships with families that support family well-being and positive parent-child relationships; families as lifelong learners and educators; family engagement in transitions; family connections to peers and community, and families as advocates and leaders. Please contact our Blue Ridge office at (509) 527-3066 for more information.

Who is Eligible?

WWPS Head Start/ECEAP Coordinator Staff

Evenson Diana

Walla Walla Public Schools Preschool Director
Diana Evenson
DEvenson@wwps.org
509.526.1781

Our Head Start/ECEAP program serves 233 children
Each AM and PM session holds class for 3.25 hours, four days per week
Our staff to child ratio is 1:8.5

Education Coordinator

Catherine Dennis

cdennis@wwps.org

509.526.1774

Each family receives two education home visits (with literacy and math focused activities) and two conferences per year
Curriculum emphasizes self-esteem and social skills, language development in English and primary language, literacy, math, and science skills, appreciation of creative arts, and physical and health development

Child Development Coordinator
Jennifer Avina
javina@wwps.org
509.526.1786

Every student receives developmental screenings with follow up support and referrals as necessary.
Our program works closely with Special Programs and area agencies to support children with special needs.

Health and Nutrition Coordinator
Jesselyn Rieke

jrieke @wwps.org
509.526.1787

Provide education to families on the importance of health development
Link families with continuous medical and dental care
Dental, vision, hearing screenings and referrals
Facilitate classroom activities with an emphasis on healthy food choices

Parent Involvement Coordinator
Cresencia Gutierrez-Duran
CDuran@wwps.org
509.526.1793

Parents are encouraged to become engaged in their child’s education!
Gain leadership skills and become involved in program planning through Policy Council.
Increase literacy in your home through family night activities.
Volunteer in the classroom, on field trips and preparing classroom materials at home.
Participate in trainings on child development, discipline, financial literacy, and other topics of interest.