Expanding Preschool Options For Families

The David Douglas School District is a step closer to providing preschool for all District families who want it. The District has been approved for 126 additional preschool slots through Multnomah County’s Preschool For All grant program.

One way that the District will grow preschool space in the near future will be through the passage of our recent $140 million bond measure.

The grant provides $15,750 for each of the 126 preschool slots per year, giving the District nearly $2 million per year to sustain the program. That will allow each classroom of 18 students to have one teacher and two instructional assistants. The grant provides additional funds for startup costs and other support services.

For each classroom, the Preschool for All grant pays for:

• A licensed preschool teacher, as well as two Early Childhood Development Specialists
• Substitutes
• Family engagement activities
• Home visits
• Nursing services (via a contract with MESD)
• Professional development for staff
• $25,000 in start-up funds (West Powellhurst was our first Preschool for All classroom and it opened in 22-23; the others will open next fall). Examples of start-up items include learning materials, radios for staff, blankets for the children’s nap time, storage for learning materials, standards-based curriculum, furniture, play equipment, supplies, etc.
• Academic, play, and hands-on learning materials including but not limited to: books, costumes, sensory games, blocks, puzzles, tactile letters, activity books, alphabet books, early math activities, arts and craft materials, magnetic letters, balls, sorting games and materials, etc.
• Breakfast, snack, and lunch
• Transportation

If you have any questions, please call our office at 503 256 6501 or email me at matt_soule@ddsd40.org. 

Thank you,
Matt Soule
Principal