![a student wearing a pink doctor shirt uses a stethoscope]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1737734505/tulsaschoolsorg/yt3ftwkghmgor1tkwfap/LanierPre-K-105.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1737734505/tulsaschoolsorg/yt3ftwkghmgor1tkwfap/LanierPre-K-105.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1737734505/tulsaschoolsorg/yt3ftwkghmgor1tkwfap/LanierPre-K-105.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1737734505/tulsaschoolsorg/yt3ftwkghmgor1tkwfap/LanierPre-K-105.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1737734505/tulsaschoolsorg/yt3ftwkghmgor1tkwfap/LanierPre-K-105.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1737734505/tulsaschoolsorg/yt3ftwkghmgor1tkwfap/LanierPre-K-105.jpg","width":2200}])
Tulsa Public Schools offers free, full-day pre-K programs at all 45 elementary schools. Enrolling a child in pre-K gives them a great foundation for the rest of their educational journey.
"It is in pre-k that students learn to love school!" said Lanier Elementary pre-K teacher Amy Dossett. "Pre-K introduces children to the structure of a school day, routines, and expectations, making the transition to kindergarten smoother. It also helps them develop foundational academic skills like early literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving."
She explains that pre-K classrooms are the great environments for cognitive, social, and emotional development. Students learn life skills like patience and compassion for their peers and the structure allows them to become more independent and confident in their abilities.
Pre-K programs in Tulsa Public Schools use research-based early childhood curriculum called Tools of the Mind that allow students to build skills through intentional play.
"The curriculum encourages children to engage in activities that promote imagination, creative thinking, and social-emotional development. In centers, students use structured dramatic play, storytelling, and problem-solving tasks. Students learn to plan, control impulses, and reflect on their actions."
Currently, pre-K students are working on a medical unit where they are encouraged to play as doctors, pharmacists, and X-ray technicians. They are developing fine motor skills while practicing reading, math, and science. Upcoming units include vet/pet, camping, and community, giving students more opportunities to develop those skills, as well as spark curiosity and interests in a wide-range of areas.
Enrollment is open until February 21, 2025! If your child will be 4 years old by September 1, 2025, you can enroll them online at enroll.tulsaschools.org. Find more information about pre-K enrollment here. Learn more about early childhood education here.