The preschool program at Centerville Elementary is the only public preschool in Barnstable. The program offers a high quality-learning environment for children with and without disabilities.
There are still openings available for next fall for 3-year-old peer models. Principal Matt Scheufele said children who have good language and social interaction skills are ideal candidates for the program.
“There are many children that are in the program with special needs in language development, so we are looking for children who are able to use good language skills and are able to model appropriate behavior,” Scheufele said.
Scheufele said the program benefits both children with special needs and typical children.
“I think typical children learn how to interact with their world and with others in the program. It really promotes a whole child learning environment and community. The earlier children have the chance to interact with students that have learning disabilities the better capable they are down the road of being in an inclusive environment,” Scheufele said.
The program is an affordable option for parents because tuition fees are on a sliding scale according to a family’s income.
The next screening for 3-year-old peer models will be held at Centerville Elementary School Wednesday April 10 from 9:15 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. To be screened a child should be 3 as of September 1, 2013. Interested parents should bring with them proof of residence (utility bill, rent receipt), their child’s birth certificate, immunization records and current income verification. All Barnstable residents can apply.
If you have any questions about the program you can call the preschool office at 508-790-9890 ext. 144.