Preschool is the first step to a successful future. That’s why Cedar Rapids Community School District is the district of choice for families seeking a strong, supportive start. With full-day preschool and wraparound care offered in neighborhood elementary schools, CRCSD helps your children build confidence, familiarity, and a love of learning from day one.
Click below or call us at 319-558-2570 to start your child’s Future Ready journey!
Many CRCSD preschools are located in your neighborhood elementary school, helping your students feel comfortable and confident from day one.
Full-day and half-day options are available, with affordable wraparound care offered by Head Start and Champions.
Exceptional
Educators
Why Families Choose
CRCSD Preschool
Our play-based program uses the Creative Curriculum and meets Iowa Quality Preschool Program Standards, building early literacy, problem-solving, and independence through active, hands-on learning.
Each classroom is led by a licensed Early Childhood Education teacher and staffed with highly trained paraprofessionals, providing expert support for every child.
Flexible half- and full-day options within one public school district provide reliable care, clear routines, and a smooth transition into kindergarten.
Trusted
Wraparound Care
What Our Families
Are Saying
“We loved that preschool was in the same school our child would attend for kindergarten. By the first day, nothing felt unfamiliar.”
Submit your child’s information through CRCSD's Infinite Campus portal.
5 Steps to Registering for CRCSD Preschool
Start Online
Choose Your Preschool Option
Select half-day or full-day programs based on your family’s needs.
Provide proof of age, immunizations, and residency when prompted.
Upload Required Documents
District staff review your information and confirm eligibility and placement.
We Review & Confirm
A school representative contacts you with next steps and starting details.
Hear From Your School
Why choose Cedar Rapids Schools for my child’s preschool?
CRCSD’s preschool program provides a caring, play-based environment where children grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Classrooms are led by licensed Early Childhood Education teachers and supported by highly trained paraprofessionals.
Our preschool program meets Iowa Quality Preschool Program Standards (IQPPS) and uses the research-based Creative Curriculum to build early literacy, problem-solving, and independence. Expect a strong foundation for kindergarten and beyond.
What preschool options are available, and where are they offered?
CRCSD offers both half-day and full-day preschool options to support working families and different scheduling needs.
2026–2027 Full-Day Locations:
Grant Wood Elementary School
Truman Early Learning Center
Viola Gibson Elementary School
2026–2027 Half-Day Locations:
Cedar River Academy at Taylor
Hiawatha Elementary
Johnson STEAM Academy
Kenwood Leadership Academy
Maple Grove Elementary
Truman Early Learning Center
West Willow Elementary
Wright Elementary
Availability may vary by location, and you're encouraged to explore your options early to avoid a waitlist.
How much does preschool at CRCSD cost?
Half-day preschool is free for eligible families. Full-day preschool is available for $350 per month, providing extended learning and care within the same trusted school environment.
What makes Cedar Rapids Schools preschool different from private childcare?
CRCSD preschool combines certified educators, a structured learning environment, and direct alignment with kindergarten expectations, often at a more affordable cost than private childcare. Families also benefit from continuity, starting their child’s education in the same district they’ll grow with for years.
We know that you need:
That’s why CRCSD preschool is designed to meet your family where it is, and grow with you in the years to come.
For students who learn best by doing, CRCSD's elementary magnet schools offer preschool programming that is a more hands-on, exploratory experience. Through project-based learning and real-world problem solving, students take an active role in their education, all within a supportive, structured academic environment.
Magnet schools are public schools and are open to all Cedar Rapids Schools students through a lottery-based enrollment process. Families across the district can apply, regardless of neighborhood attendance boundaries.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Start your child's journey through our intuitive online portal, or reach out to our dedicated team at 319-558-2570.
