The Start of a Child’s Educational Journey
The Sioux City Community School District is dedicated to the success of all children. Guided by knowledge of child development and research-based practices, early childhood staff provides developmentally appropriate experiences for all SCCSD preschool students.
Enrollment Requirements
Students enrolling in our four-year-old voluntary preschool program must meet two requirements:
Your child MUST reside in the State of Iowa. (preschool does not follow district boundaries, so you can request a preferred preschool location in the registration application)
Your child MUST be four years old by September 15, 2025.
In addition:
Your child may not attend free preschool for two years.
Your child may not attend free preschool if they are five on or before September 15, 2024.
2025-2026 Preschool Registration
Preschool registration will open on Sunday, February 9th at 4:00 pm. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until locations are filled.
Please note, applications are reviewed in the order they are received. This process can take some time, but rest-assured, our coordinator will be in touch with you once your application has been reviewed to guide you through next steps.
Applicants can expect one of the following:
A referral to the Head Start Program (if eligible). The state requires families that qualify for Head Start to attend a Head Start Preschool program. The household information included on your application will determine your eligibility for a Head Start program.
A one-to-one registration meeting with our preschool coordinator (dependent upon availability). Please bring your child’s birth certificate and immunization records to this meeting.
Assistance registering with another preschool program if ours becomes full.
For any additional questions, please contact our preschool coordinator at 712-293-0436 ext. 1401.
Additional Preschool Information
Hours & Tuition
Sioux City Community School District preschools run a full-day program and curriculum. Through Iowa’s Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program (SWVPP), three hours of preschool per day are provided at no cost.
Students can attend Monday through Friday from 8:30 am – 11:30 am for free.
For the additional four hours of preschool per day, there is a $250 monthly fee. Reduced tuition rates are available based on household income. Please contact our preschool coordinator at 712-293-0436 ext. 1401 to inquire about tuition assistance.
Growth & Development
SCCSD preschool staff use the early childhood curriculum as a framework for facilitating children’s growth in all areas of development. All children are seen as individuals; therefore, staff provides modifications and adaptations to ensure the success of each child. The classroom environment is set up to encourage play, which is the most important process through which young children learn. The early childhood staff feels families play an important role in their child’s educational success. Ongoing, open communication is vital. It is essential that families actively participate in their child’s education.
Sioux City Community School District Preschools Locations for 2025-2026:
All preschools within the Sioux City Community School District are affiliates of the Preschool Initiative Program and take place at the following buildings:
Bryant Elementary | Riverside Elementary |
Clark Early Childhood Center | Spalding Park Environmental Sciences Elementary |
Leeds Elementary | Unity Elementary |
Morningside STEM Elementary |
Preschool Resources
Access a PDF of the Preschool Curriculum Assessment Information in Six Languages:
Be advised that at any time the Iowa State Legislature may consider proposals that could reduce or eliminate funding for some preschool programs.