CASTLE offers a variety of program options designed to meet the needs of working parents and support the growth and development of children in Kindergarten through eighth grade. We also offer a NAEYC Accredited preschool program for children ages 3 - 5. All programs are fully licensed and have achieved national accreditations. CASTLE is open weekdays from 6:30 am to 5:55 pm. Our facilities are conveniently located across the street from Colchester Elementary School and are a short distance from Jack Jackter Intermediate and William J. Johnston Middle Schools.

Preschool

School Age:
- Kindergarten Connection
- Before & After School
- Summer
- Vacations / Holidays / Snow Days

PRESCHOOL:

CASTLE\'s preschool program is expanding to meet the needs of children in our community. Beginning in September, 2011, we are expanding our hours to offer a \"school day\" program for children ages 3 - 5. In addition, we will offer an early morning care option for parents needing to drop their children off prior to the start of the school day. Our NAEYC Accredited program provides opportunities to explore the world of science, math, language, creative arts, music and movement through creative exploration. Emphasis is placed on learning activities designed to enhance each child\'s intellectual, social, emotional and physical development. Our professional early childhood educators use the Connecticut Pre-School Curriculum Frameworks and Assessment enabling them to assess each child\'s development and progress as they prepare for kindergarten.

School Readiness Funding:

CASTLE partners with the Colchester Public Schools to provide a limited number of grant funded preschool slots though a School Readiness grant. Eligibility for these slots is income based. For more information on School Readiness eligibility, please contact Shelly Flynn, School Readiness Program Director at 860-537-0717.

Preschool Hours and School Calendar:

\"School Day\" option: 9:00 am - 2:30 pm Monday - Friday
Half-day option: 9:00 am - 11:30 am Monday - Friday
Before School option 6:30 am - 9:00 am Monday - Friday

CASTLE\'s preschool program follows the Colchester Public School Calendar as set forth by the Colchester Board of Education. A full calendar of school vacations and no school days will be provided prior to the start of the school year. If Colchester Public Schools are closed, preschool classes will also be closed. If the Colchester Public Schools have a delayed opening, the preschool program will open at 10:15 am. If Colchester Public Schools have a half-day or early dismissal, preschool will be dismissed at 12:45.


Kindergarten Connection:
CASTLE's Kindergarten Connection program provides half-day kindergarteners with all the benefits of a full-day kindergarten program including:

Bus transportation to or from Colchester Elementary School
NAEYC Accredited, developmentally appropriate curriculum
Qualified, experienced staff
Enrichment programs in language, music and art
Breakfast or afternoon snack
Large outdoor playground

Parents may also choose to combine before and/or after school care with Kindergarten Connection providing a seamless day of care and education for your child.

Kindergarten Connection Hours:
8:30 - 12:15: AM Connection (includes transportation from CASTLE to Colchester Elementary School)
11:30 - 3:15: PM Connection (includes transportation from Colchester Elementary School to CASTLE)

Before & After School:
CASTLE offers a high quality Before & After School program for children in grades kindergarten through eight in a safe, secure environment. Our curriculum supports the intellectual, social, emotional and physical well being of children while teaching valuable life skills and encouraging independence. Our caring, knowledgeable and experienced staff is committed to providing each child with positive guidance and enriching experiences during those important hours before and after school. Bus transportation is provided to and from school each day.

Before & After School Hours:
6:30 am - 8:30 am Before School Session
Close of school - 5:55 pm After School Session

Costs/Fees:
School Age (5-12 years) $104