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PreK Program

Two young students sit at a classroom table, focused on sorting crayons into a clear plastic container. One student wears glasses and a green patterned shirt, while the other wears a purple shirt. A pink water bottle and a blue supply caddy with pencils sit nearby. The classroom background includes colorful decorations and learning materials.

Arkansas City Public Schools PreK Program – A caring, play-based program for 3- and 4-year-olds that builds skills for kindergarten. Call 620-441-2075 to learn more and start the enrollment process.

 

Student colors a “first day of preschool” worksheet at a desk with crayons.

Starting PreK

PreK Parent Information

Student plays with a toy toaster in a classroom play kitchen.

PreK Strategic Plan Documents

Kindergarten Readiness

Welcome to Kindergarten

Bienvenidos a Kinder

PreK News

Child smiles while riding a stationary bike at an outdoor activity booth, with adults nearby at a park event.

Ark City Read & Stroll returns April 21. Join us for a fun, family-friendly evening at Lovie Watson Park. Families with young children can enjoy reading stations, games, and activities while connecting with local resources. Stop by anytime from 4 to 6 p.m. and enjoy learning together.

Colorful paper butterflies in rainbow order decorate a white tiled wall under a sign that reads “Welcome to Pre-K.”

Is your child starting PreK or Kindergarten this year? We know it’s a big milestone—and we’re here to help!

At USD 470, we’re focused on making the transition to school smooth, fun, and full of support. From building life skills to creating safe, caring classrooms, we’re committed to helping every child grow and thrive.

Check out our latest article for helpful tips, tools, and ways to get ready at home.

Six women stand in a line in an office with the two in the middle holding a check

Arkansas City Public Schools and its partners have received a $1,500 grant from the Legacy Regional Community Foundation to support the upcoming Read and Stroll event, which promotes early literacy and family engagement. The funding will provide interactive games for families to encourage learning at home. The event, set for April 22 at Lovie Watson Park, features reading stations, games, resource booths, and giveaways for families with young children.

old black and white newspaper clipping of photo of dentist looking in little girl's mouth.

Cowley County Head Start is celebrating 60 years of the national program’s impact on early childhood education. Established in 1965, Head Start began as a summer program to break the cycle of poverty. Cowley County joined in 1985, serving 34 children at its first location in the Presbyterian Church, thanks in part to the efforts of Dr. Nick Rogers. Over time, the program expanded to serve 147 children in Arkansas City and Winfield with a $1.8 million grant.

Director Tara Taylor highlighted Head Start’s role in shaping the community: "For four decades, Head Start has provided children with the foundation they need for a successful future." Plans are underway to celebrate this milestone while focusing on continued success in early childhood education.