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Connections Preschool

Preschool students in bright colored raincoat in front of fall tree

We believe early childhood is a remarkable time of social, physical, emotional and cognitive development. Our goal is to support the development of children by nurturing their natural curiosity and eagerness to learn. Our Connecting to Our World for 4-year-olds and Exploring Our World for 3-year-olds curriculum consists of teacher-facilitated opportunities that allow children to explore the world around them. Children are encouraged to explore, notice, ask and answer questions, make discoveries and learn new concepts and skills through play-based social interactions with their friends and teachers. We understand parents/guardians are a child's first and most influential teachers and hope to partner with you to make this time of early learning a successful experience for you and your child.

Preschool Program Requirements and Information:

  • Families must live in District 196 boundaries. Find my school.
  • Children must meet age requirements as of September 1, 2024 for 3- and 4-year-olds, and November 1, 2024 for Preschool Discovery.
  • Families must complete an online application.
  • Concurrent enrollment in Connections Preschool and other state and/or district funded programs cannot be accommodated (ex. Head Start or Family School).
  • Connections Preschool is a collaboration with our district's Early Childhood Special Education program.
  • Financial assistance and scholarships are available for families with identified needs.

Questions? Email us at connectionspreschool@district196.org

Connections Preschool brochure cover image of preschool children

2024-2025 School Year (Starting September 2024)

Connections Preschool is accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year.

Applications will only be reviewed if space becomes available throughout the 2024-2025 school year (September 2024 to June 2025).

Due to space limitations, we cannot place all applicants. Students are NOT placed on a first come, first served basis.

View our brochure with preschool options for the 2024-2025 school year: English | Spanish

Technical Support
If you need access to a computer or technical support to complete the online application, email connectionspreschool@district196.org or call 952-388-1977 for an appointment or phone assistance.

Interpreter Support
For assistance in all other languages, call 952-388-1977 and leave your name, phone number and language, and you will receive a call from an interpreter who will assist you.

Sep 2024-Jun 2025 Preschool Application

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Contact Connections Preschool

Administrative Office:
Dakota Valley Learning Center (DVLC)
office 952-388-1977
email connectionspreschool@district196.org
address 4679 144th St. W., Apple Valley, MN 55124