Early Childhood Education
Play-based Experiences; Learning How to Learn.
Grand Island Public Schools provides a free Early Childhood Education program as part of our commitment to educating the whole child. Our preschool program provides a nurturing and caring environment that develops each child’s potential for learning.
The Early Childhood Education (Preschool) Program at GIPS serves four-year-old children, and 3-year-olds verified with Special Education, in four different buildings across the district:
- O’Connor Learning Center (OLC)
This dedicated preschool space opened in 2021 and is home to six classrooms, a vibrant playground, indoor physical activity space, and childcare space provided by the local YWCA.The innovative facility is located in the heart of Grand Island and welcomes over 200 students a year. This main preschool location was previously known as the Early Learning Center and was housed in the former Engleman Elementary building in Northwest Grand Island before moving to the current location.
- Howard Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, & Starr Elementary
We also provide preschool classrooms at three of our district Elementary Schools. Utilizing space in these schools allows us to offer more Early Childhood Education opportunities to families across Grand Island.
Our Monday - Thursday half-day program is dedicated to empowering our youngest students to find their voice and learn how to learn.
We believe every child deserves access to meaningful experiences in a play-based, language-rich environment. We empower the whole child from cradle to career through family and community relationships to achieve our mission of every child entering Kindergarten ready for a lifetime of success, happiness, and achievement.
Learn more about Early Childhood Education eligibility and registration at our preschool website.
