School News

Our preschool uses developmentally appropriate child guidance and management techniques which are in alignment with the district’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports expectations. PBIS is an instructional approach to teaching social skills through the use of systematic and individual strategies. It is designed to build positive relationships among all school stakeholders and to prevent problem behaviors.

Our students are expected to Be Respectful, Responsible, and Ready to Learn! A supportive and caring environment helps our students grow individually, develop friendships and make strong connections with their teachers.

The Willoughby-Eastlake City Schools District provides comprehensive early childhood/preschool programming for children who are three through five years of age. Our program offers a continuum of services that include:

• Regular education classrooms
• Regular education/co-taught classrooms
• Integrated preschool classrooms
• Special education resource room

The classrooms in the preschool offer a spacious and inviting environment for young children. A gymnasium and outdoor play area offer opportunities for active play.

The curriculum is developmentally appropriate and focuses on early learning skills to prepare students for kindergarten, while also supporting their personal growth and development.

The Willoughby-Eastlake Preschool has earned the prestigious Gold Medal rating from Ohio’s Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) program, an achievement that reflects the program’s commitment to excellence in early childhood education. This highest-level rating recognizes that the preschool not only meets but exceeds the state’s rigorous standards for health, safety, and quality learning environments. The Gold Medal distinction highlights the preschool’s dedication to fostering strong early learning foundations that support school readiness and long-term academic success.

To receive this honor, the Willoughby-Eastlake Preschool demonstrated exceptional practices in several key areas, including high-quality instruction, strong leadership, well-qualified staff, and meaningful family and community engagement. This recognition is a testament to the hard work of the preschool team and their focus on creating a nurturing and academically enriching environment for all young learners. Families can feel confident knowing their children are receiving the very best start to their educational journey.