Early Learning

Monroe School District supports a robust early learning program to ensure children entering our schools have a strong educational foundation from which to build. We are working to align early learning programs within our schools with those throughout our community. Over time, it is our desire to ensure that every student in the Monroe community has access to a high-quality preschool experience that enables each child entering kindergarten ready to learn.

Below you will find information and resources about some of the early learning programs currently offered in our schools and throughout our community.

Early Intervention Program (Birth to Three)

The Early Intervention Program develops individualized plans for children ages birth to three years old who have developmental delays and medical conditions.  It also provides support to families to enhance each child's development.

For more information about the Early Intervention Program or for referral information, contact Sherwood Community Services at (425) 334-4071.

Developmental Preschool

The Monroe School District developmental preschool program provides instruction and services to students ages 3-4 with developmental delays. The program is located at Fryelands Elementary.

Parents who are concerned about the development of their preschool age child should contact Monroe School District's Student Services Department at (360) 804-2600 for more information.

Inclusive Preschool

Our “Growing Together” inclusive preschool program brings students with and without disabilities together to learn side by side in a supportive, high quality early childhood environment. Class size is approximately 14 students, led by a certificated teacher and specialized support paraeducator. This classroom uses the Creative Curriculum to provide engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences.

Our Growing Together classroom is located at Frank Wagner Elementary. Class is held Monday-Thursdays from 8:55 to 11:25 a.m. This is a fee-based preschool program with reduced tuition rates available for families who qualify for free & reduced price meals. Students with disabilities who are placed in the program by their Individualized Education Plan (IEP) team do not pay tuition.

Eligibility criteria:

  • Children must be at least 3 years old by the first day of class, but not yet 5 years old by that date.
  • Children must not be enrolled in or eligible for ECEAP or Head Start (learn more here).
  • Parents/guardians must provide transportation for their child.
  • Priority will be given to families living within the Monroe School District boundaries.
  • Children do not need to be fully toilet trained but should be developing this skill.

For more information, please contact Monroe School District's Student Services Department at (360) 804-2600.

Transition to Kindergarten

Monroe School District's Transition to Kindergarten (TK) program provides students with access to early learning opportunities to help build a solid foundation for their academic development. With a focus on social, foundational academic, and self-help skills, this program provides an equitable early learning opportunity for students by preparing them for the kindergarten classroom.

Students must be four years old and are screened for eligibility in order to particpiate in the program.

Learn more about our TK program here

Snohomish County Head Start

Head Start offers free, quality comprehensive programs for children birth to age five and their families. By involving parents, our programs promote school readiness. Children increase their social and learning skills when they attend Head Start and Early Head Start. Our high-quality services address the needs of children and families including:

  • Education
  • Health and Nutrition
  • Social Services

Early Head Start

This program serves children birth to age 3 in the home. Families enrolled in EHS also participate in family fun groups twice a month. We include children who have special needs and English language learners.

Head Start

This program serves children ages 3-5 in the classroom setting. Edmonds Community college provides Head Start and Early Head Start Services in Monroe.

Please contact them at (425) 712-9000 or www.edcc.edu/birthtofive for more information.

Early Childhood Education & Assistance Program (ECEAP)

ECEAP is a Washington state funded FREE preschool program open to children who are three or four years old by August 31. Children transitioning from Early Head Start/Early ECEAP or Early Intervention programs are eligible at age three.

Income Guidelines are used as a starting point to review each application on a case-by-case basis.  Children in foster care or kinship care and children adopted from foster care or from an orphanage in another country are eligible for ECEAP.  Families involved with CPS, FAR or ICW, and families experiencing homelessness, are prioritized for enrollment.

What is ECEAP?

  • Education 
    • Preschool experience focusing on the needs of the whole child
    • Activities which build self-esteem, social, emotional, and physical skills
    • Highlights the strengths and diversity of each individual child
    • Small class sizes with a 10:1 child-teacher ratio
    • Support for dual language learners
  • Wellness
    • Medical, dental, vision and hearing screenings
    • Nutritious family-style meals
    • Health and nutrition education for children and families
  • Family Support
    • Parenting classes
    • Assistance to develop and meet family goals
    • Resources and referrals to community agencies
    • Connect with job training and employment programs
    • Learn to advocate for your child's needs

Please contact (425) 388-7010 or https://snohomishcountywa.gov/523/Early-Childhood-Education-Assistance-Pro for more information.