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Welcome to the Early Childhood Center

Northampton Public Schools Early Childhood Information

 

The Early Childhood Center is located at Jackson Street School, 120 Jackson Street, Northampton, MA 01060. Our mission is to support the families and young children of Northampton. Please call us at 413-587-1471 or email earlychildhood@northampton-k12.us with any questions – We are here for you and your children!

 
 
 
 

During the school year, we support local parents in any way we can, with programs like:

  • Family fun events and parenting workshops
  • Daily morning playgroups Mon-Thurs in locations in Northampton, Florence or Hadley
  • Preschool and childcare support in Northampton both in the Northampton Public Preschool and with the Preschool Partnership, helping locate programs and connect to financial aid
  • Free toys and books through enrollment in the ParentChild+ Home Visiting Program
  • Developmental screening and support for children who are referred for evaluation for special services

During the summer, we run other playgroups and continue to support parents in any way we can.

 
 
 
 

Two children laugh and play in a park, catching falling autumn leaves.

 
 
 
 

 

 
 
 
 

Northampton Public Preschool (Mon-Thurs)

 

The Northampton Public Schools Preschool offers a half day (morning or afternoon) preschool program for 3- and 4-year old children who live in Northampton, Florence, and Leeds. There are limited 4-day full school day spaces for 4-year old children, chosen by lottery. 

 

We have preschool programs at both Bridge Street School and Leeds Elementary School. The program integrates children who are typically developing with those with special needs. This Northampton integrated preschool setting allows all children to participate to their fullest capacities in the mainstream of education. Special support services are provided within the classroom as needed.

Students whose street addresses place them at either Bridge Street School or Jackson Street School for K-5 attend the BSS preschool program. Students whose street addresses place them at either Leeds Elementary School or RK Finn Ryan Road Elementary School for K-5 attend the Leeds preschool program.

Please email us at earlychildhood@northampton-k12.us with any questions and to find out how to apply. You can download our Preschool Application below.

 

Basics:

The Early Childhood Program follows the Northampton Public School calendar.

  • Mon-Thurs (4-day) 1/2 day program either am or pm (3 or 4 years old):  2.5 hours/day
  • Mon-Thurs (4-day) full school day program (4 year old only):  6 hours/day (limited spaces)
 

 

 

Preschool Application